U.S. patent application number 13/987432 was filed with the patent office on 2013-11-28 for elevating lift dispenser and container.
This patent application is currently assigned to Twist 'n Serve, LLC. The applicant listed for this patent is Randy D. Sines. Invention is credited to Randy D. Sines.
Application Number | 20130313258 13/987432 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 49620791 |
Filed Date | 2013-11-28 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130313258 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Sines; Randy D. |
November 28, 2013 |
Elevating lift dispenser and container
Abstract
A container includes a canister having an upper lip, and an
operator having an operator main body. The operator has a gripping
ring at one end that defines an operator upper lip and a container
opening. The gripping ring outside diameter is greater than an
outside diameter of the operator main body. The canister includes a
helical grooved canister engagement feature which extends about the
canister. The operator includes an operator engagement feature
which is a longitudinal slot formed through the operator main body.
A lift having a lift projection is received in the operator, and
the operator main body is received within the canister, with the
lift projection extending through the operator engagement feature
and into the canister engagement feature. The gripping ring extends
at least partially over the canister upper lip, and a lower edge of
the gripping ring is located adjacent the canister upper lip.
Inventors: |
Sines; Randy D.; (Spokane,
WA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Sines; Randy D. |
Spokane |
WA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Twist 'n Serve, LLC
Spokane
WA
|
Family ID: |
49620791 |
Appl. No.: |
13/987432 |
Filed: |
July 24, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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12072551 |
Feb 26, 2008 |
8523013 |
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13987432 |
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12008905 |
Jan 14, 2008 |
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12072551 |
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11076386 |
Mar 9, 2005 |
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12008905 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
220/288 ;
220/200; 220/669; 220/780 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 81/22 20130101;
B65D 85/36 20130101; B65D 83/0027 20130101; B65D 83/0005 20130101;
B65D 83/0083 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
220/288 ;
220/669; 220/200; 220/780 |
International
Class: |
B65D 83/00 20060101
B65D083/00 |
Claims
1. A container comprising: a canister defining a canister interior
cavity which is defined by a canister inside diameter, and having
at least one interior sidewall, and a canister top opening defined
by a canister upper lip and a canister opening diameter; an
operator comprising an operator main body portion which is defined
by an operator interior cavity and an operator main body portion
outside diameter, the operator having a gripping ring disposed at a
first end of the operator, the gripping ring defining an operator
upper lip and a container main opening, the gripping ring being
defined by a gripping ring outside diameter which is greater than
the operator main body portion outside diameter, the gripping ring
further being defined by a gripping ring lower edge which is
opposite the operator upper lip; a lift having at least one lift
projection extending there from; and wherein: the canister includes
at least one canister engagement feature which comprises a groove
formed in the canister interior sidewall and which extends in an
essentially diagonal direction about the canister interior
sidewall; the operator includes at least one operator engagement
feature which comprises an essentially longitudinal slot formed
through the operator main body portion; the lift is received in the
operator interior cavity, and the operator main body portion is
received within the canister interior cavity such that the lift
projection extends through the operator engagement feature and into
the canister engagement feature; the canister inside diameter and
the operator main body portion outside diameter are selected to be
substantially similar such that the operator is substantially
adjacent to the canister interior sidewall; the gripping ring
outside diameter is selected to be larger than the canister opening
diameter such that the gripping ring extends outward of the
canister interior cavity and at least partially over the canister
upper lip; and the gripping ring lower edge is located in proximity
to the canister upper lip thus defining a junction there between;
and rotation of the operator relative to the canister causes the
lift projection to ride along the canister engagement feature and
the operator engagement feature to thereby move the lift in a
vertical direction within the operator main body portion.
2. The container of claim 1 and wherein the at least one container
engagement feature comprises a helical groove formed in the
container interior sidewall.
3. The container of claim 1 further comprising a sealing means for
sealing the container main opening and the junction between the
gripping ring lower edge and the canister upper lip.
4. The container of claim 3 wherein: the canister includes thread
features formed on an exterior of the canister proximate the
canister upper lip; and the sealing means comprises a screw cap
configured to fit over the container main opening and to engage the
thread features.
5. The container of claim 4 and further comprising a sealing
compound applied to at least one of the canister or the operator
proximate the junction between the gripping ring lower edge and the
canister upper lip.
6. The container of claim 3 wherein: the canister includes a cap
securing feature which extends at least partially around an
exterior of the canister proximate the canister upper lip; and the
sealing means comprises a snap-on cap configured to fit over the
container main opening and to engage the cap securing feature.
7. The container of claim 6 and wherein the sealing means further
comprises a safety seal applied to the operator upper lip over the
container main opening.
8. The container of claim 3 wherein the sealing means comprises:
one of a screw cap or a snap-on cap configured to cover at least
the container main opening; and a shrink wrap seal covering the
junction between the gripping ring lower edge and the canister
upper lip.
9. The container of claim 1 wherein: the canister includes three
canister engagement features, the canister engagement features
comprising essentially parallel helical grooves formed into the
canister interior sidewall; the operator comprises three operator
engagement features, the operator engagement features being equally
radially disposed about the operator main body portion; and the
lift comprises three lift projections equally radially disposed
about the lift.
10. The container of claim 1 wherein: the operator is fabricated
from an essentially clear material; and the canister includes a
substantially clear window extending along the canister in a
direction perpendicular to the lift; whereby a side edge of the
lift can be viewed through the window and the operator.
11. The container of claim 10 and further comprising indicia
applied to the canister proximate the window, the indicia
indicating status of contents within the container.
12. The container of claim 1 wherein: the canister is fabricated
from a material which allows at least partial light transmission
through the canister; and the operator is fabricated from a
material which allows at least partial light transmission through
the operator main body portion; whereby a light source supported by
the lift within the container can provide illumination through the
canister and operator.
13. The container of claim 12 wherein: at least one of the canister
or the operator is provided with gradations; and the gradations
comprise one of gradations in color or gradations in light
transmissiveness.
14. The container of claim 1 wherein the lift defines a lift
surface, and the lift surface is a non-planar surface with respect
to the operator outside diameter.
15. The container of claim 14 wherein the lift surface is saddle
shaped.
16. The container of claim 1 and further comprising a contents
retainer applied to the operator upper lip, the contents retainer
comprising at least one flexible protrusion which extends from the
operator upper lip inwards of the container main opening.
17. The container of claim 1 wherein: one of the operator or
canister comprises a securing feature; and the other of the
operator or canister comprises a securing feature receiver; whereby
the securing feature is engaged by the securing feature receiver to
retrain the operator within the canister.
18. The container of claim 1 wherein the operator comprises raised
spacing features defined on an outer wall of the operator main body
portion.
19. A container comprising: an essentially cylindrical canister
comprising a canister upper lip at a canister main opening defined
at a first end of the canister, the canister main opening being
defined by a canister main opening diameter, the canister further
comprising: a canister main body portion defined by a canister main
body portion inside diameter; a plurality of canister engagement
features formed in the canister main body portion, the canister
engagement features comprising essentially parallel helical
grooves; an essentially cylindrical operator comprising: an
operator main body portion defined by an operator main body portion
outside diameter which is substantially equal to the canister main
body portion inside diameter; a plurality of operator engagement
features formed in the operator main body portion, the operator
engagement features comprising vertical slots formed through the
operator main body portion; a gripping ring at a first end of the
operator, the gripping ring defining an operator upper lip and a
container main opening, the gripping ring being defined by a
gripping ring outside diameter which greater than the operator main
body portion outside diameter and the canister main opening
diameter, the gripping ring being further defined by a gripping
ring lower edge; and a lift comprising a plurality of lift
projections extending outward of the lift; wherein: the lift is
received in the operator main body portion, and the operator main
body portion is received within the canister main body portion such
that the lift projections extend through the operator engagement
features and into the canister engagement features, and the
gripping ring extends outward of the canister main opening; the
gripping ring lower edge is located in proximity to the canister
upper lip thus defining a junction there between; and rotation of
the operator relative to the canister causes the lift projections
to ride along the operator engagement features and the canister
engagement features to thereby move the lift in a vertical
direction within the operator main body portion.
20. The container of claim 19 comprising: a canister upper flange
portion disposed between the canister main body portion and the
canister upper lip; an operator upper flange portion disposed
between the operator main body portion and the gripping ring; and
wherein: the canister upper flange portion is defined by a canister
upper flange portion inside diameter which is the canister main
opening diameter; and the operator upper flange portion is defined
by an operator upper flange portion diameter which is greater than
the operator main body portion outside diameter and less than the
gripping ring outside diameter.
21. The container of claim 19 further comprising a sealing means
for sealing the container main opening and the junction between the
gripping ring lower edge and the canister upper lip.
22. The container of claim 21 wherein the sealing means comprises:
a cap including a top which covers the main container opening, the
cap further including a side flange which extends downward from the
cap top to cover the junction between the gripping ring lower edge
and the canister upper lip.
23. The container of claim 22 wherein the sealing means further
includes at least one of: a sealing compound applied to at least
one of the canister or the operator proximate the junction between
the gripping ring lower edge and the canister upper lip; a shrink
wrap seal covering the junction between the gripping ring lower
edge and the canister upper lip; and a safety seal applied to the
operator upper lip over the container main opening.
24. A container comprising: a canister defining a canister interior
cavity which is defined by a canister inside diameter, and having
at least one interior sidewall, and a canister top opening defined
by a canister upper lip and a canister opening diameter; an
operator comprising an operator main body portion comprising a
plurality of interconnected lobes each defining a lobe interior
cavity, and collectively defining an operator interior cavity, each
lobe being defined by an outermost edge, the outermost edges of the
lobes being circumscribed by a circle which defines an operator
main body portion outside diameter, the operator having a gripping
ring disposed at a first end of the operator, the gripping ring
defining an operator upper lip and a container main opening, the
gripping ring being defined by a gripping ring outside diameter
which is greater than the operator main body portion outside
diameter, the gripping ring further being defined by a gripping
ring lower edge which is opposite the operator upper lip; a lift
having a lift body shape to be received within the operator
interior cavity and having a plurality of lift projections
extending there from; and wherein: the canister includes a
plurality of canister engagement features which comprise
essentially parallel helical grooves formed in the canister
interior sidewall and which extend about the canister interior
sidewall; the operator includes a plurality of operator engagement
features which comprise essentially longitudinal slots formed
through the operator main body portion at the outermost edge of
each lobe; the lift is received in the operator interior cavity,
and the operator main body portion is received within the canister
interior cavity such that the lift projections extend through the
operator engagement features and into the canister engagement
features, and the gripping ring extends outward of the canister
interior cavity; the canister inside diameter and the operator main
body portion outside diameter are selected to be substantially
similar such that outermost edges of the lobes are substantially
adjacent to the canister interior sidewall; the gripping ring
outside diameter is selected to be larger than the canister opening
diameter such that the gripping ring extends outward of the
canister interior cavity and at least partially over the canister
upper lip, and the gripping ring lower edge is located in proximity
to the canister upper lip thus defining a junction there between;
and rotation of the operator relative to the canister causes the
lift projections to ride along the operator engagement features and
the canister engagement features to thereby move the lift in a
vertical direction within the operator main body portion.
25. A container comprising: a canister comprising a canister upper
lip located at a canister main opening at a first end of the
canister, the canister further comprising: a canister main body
portion defined by a canister main body portion inside diameter; at
least one canister engagement feature formed in the canister main
body portion, the canister engagement feature comprising an
essentially helical groove; an operator comprising: an operator
main body portion defined by an operator main body portion outside
diameter which is between about 90 percent and 110 percent of the
canister main body portion inside diameter; at least one operator
engagement feature formed in the operator main body portion, the
operator engagement feature comprising an essentially vertical slot
formed through the operator main body portion; a gripping ring
portion at a first end of the operator, the gripping ring portion
defining a container main opening; and a lift comprising at least
one lift projection extending outward of the lift; wherein: the
lift is received within the operator main body portion; and the
operator main body portion is received within the canister main
body portion such that the at least one lift projection extends
through the at least one operator engagement feature and into the
at least one canister engagement feature, and the gripping ring
portion extends above the canister upper lip.
26. The container of claim 25 wherein: the gripping ring portion of
the operator is located in proximity to the canister upper lip thus
defining a junction there between; and the container further
comprises a double-sealing means configured to seal the container
at the container main opening and at the junction.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims continuation-in-part priority to
co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/072,551, filed Feb.
26, 2008, which is a continuation-in-part of co-pending U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 12/008,905, filed Jan. 14, 2008 (now
abandoned), which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 11/076,386, filed Mar. 9, 2005 (now
abandoned). Priority under 35 U.S.C. .sctn.120 (or as otherwise
provided by law) is hereby claimed. Such prior applications are
incorporated by reference herein in their entirely. Applicant
further reserves the right to withdraw one or more of these
priority claims.
BACKGROUND
[0002] There are a number of different foodstuffs that are provided
in sealed cylindrical containers which have a removable cap that
can be remounted to reseal the container. Some of these containers
are used to contain items such as: manufactured potato chips
(including manufactured corn chips or other types of food chips);
olives; pickle slices; and other commodities stored in the
containers in one of a dry form (e.g., potato chips) or immersed in
a liquid bath (e.g., olives). (In general, manufactured potato
chips are formed from potato flakes into a uniform size and shape.
Other similar manufactured food chips are formed in a similar
manner.) As many have experienced, when eating manufactured potato
chips which are packaged in this manner, the relatively small
tubular size used to laterally contain the potato chips in a
stacked configuration is relatively small in diameter and this
makes it difficult to manually extract the chips after a portion
have been previously removed.
[0003] One problem many people encounter with such containers (with
respect to manufactured food chips) is that as the manufactured
food chips are removed and what becomes the top chip recedes
downwardly, the chips become increasingly difficult to grasp. This
leads to shaking of the container and upsetting it to obtain the
contents. This results in breakage of the chips and then the broken
chips are usually poured out onto one's hand and small pieces of
the chips pass may through the hand and onto the floor.
[0004] Further, foodstuffs immersed in a liquid bath typically have
a specific gravity heavier than water, and thus such foodstuffs
tend to sink to the bottom of the container. Thus, after the
foodstuff presented near the top of the container has already been
extracted, the user may have difficulty in extracting the remaining
foodstuffs from the container. This problem is particularly
noteworthy when the foodstuff is olives, or other similarly shaped
foodstuffs. Specifically, olives are generally round or elliptical
in shape, and thus attempting to extract such foodstuffs from the
lower reaches of a container by the use of a fork or the like
results in the foodstuff rolling off of the fork and back into the
liquid bath in the container. Furthermore, many cylindrical
containers for containing foodstuffs such as olives and the like
tend to have a relatively high height-to-diameter ratio. (It is not
uncommon for an olive jar to have a height of two or three times
the diameter of the jar.) This high height-to-diameter ratio makes
it even more difficult to extract foodstuff from the lower reaches
of such a container. One exemplary olive jar has a height of 13 cm,
and an opening of 4.5 cm (thus, an effective height-to-diameter
ratio of 2.9. Further in this example, the olives stored in the jar
have an average length of 3 cm, and an average length of 2 cm.
(Thus, a clearance of only 1 cm is allowed for extracting olives
from the mouth of the jar.) If the user applies a salad fork having
a width of 2.5 cm, and an angle between the tines of the fork and
the handle of the fork of 30 degrees, the user is essentially
incapable of extracting one of the olives from the container using
the fork, short of piercing the olive with the fork. (This example
is based on the Williams-Sonoma.RTM. 5 oz "Martini Olives", 2011,
and the Yamazaki Hafnia salad fork.) Consequently, the only way in
which a user can extract such an olive from such a jar using such a
salad fork is to pierce the olive with the salad fork. This is an
undesirable method since it tends to mutilate the olive, leaving it
unpresentable for use in a martini cocktail. Further, it can in
fact be very difficult to pierce an olive in the lower portion of
an olive jar, since the olive will tend to slip away from the tines
of the fork.
[0005] In yet another application, large diameter pickle slices are
commonly contained in a cylindrical container in a stacked
configuration. While easier to extract from the container than
olives (for example), the user must still either (1) pierce the
pickle slice with a fork or the like, or use fingers to extract the
pickle slice from the container. In either event the user must then
allow retained liquids to drain away from the selected pickle slice
over the container, or otherwise risk dripping the liquids outside
of the container.
[0006] U.S. Pat. No. 7,544,294, issued Jun. 9, 2009 (hereinafter,
"the '294 patent") provides as follows: [0007] " . . . a container
10 includes a vessel 12 having generally cylindrical walls and a
wide opening proximate the top thereof. A slider 14 is positioned
within the vessel 12. The slider 14 typically extends across
substantially the entire area of the vessel 12 and either contacts
the inner walls of the vessel 12 or leaves a small gap
therebetween. The slider 14 engages a shaft 16 extending vertically
through a substantial portion of the height of the vessel. The
shaft 16 bears threads 18 and rotatably secures to the vessel 12
near a floor of the vessel 12. A threaded portion 20 is secured to,
or formed on, the slider 14 and engages the threads 18 of the shaft
16. In the illustrated embodiment, the threaded portion 20 is
embodied as a collar secured to a substantially planar slider 14."
(Col. 1, line 60 through Col. 2 line 4.) [0008] "A grippable member
24 secures to the shaft 16 to facilitate gripping by the hand of a
user. The user grips the grippable member 24 with the hand to
rotate the shaft 16. The engagement of the threads 18 with the
threaded portion 20 causes the slider 14 to translate up or down."
(Col. 2 lines 17-21.) [0009] " . . . the grippable member 30 is
located beneath the vessel 12." (Col 2 lines 28-29.) "A seal 34
secured to the floor 36 of the vessel 12 inhibits leakage of fluid
from the vessel 12. (Col. 2 lines 36-37.)
[0010] As can be seen from FIGS. 1 and 2 of the U.S. '294 patent,
the apparatus disclosed therein is impracticable for use with
foodstuff having a diameter of 50% or more of the diameter of the
container ("vessel", 12). Thus, for example, the apparatus is
impracticable for storage of items such as large diameter pickle
slices (i.e., pickle slices having a diameter of greater than 50%
of the diameter of the container), since the central shaft (16)
would inhibit storage of such foodstuffs within the container.
Furthermore, the storage capability of the apparatus described by
the '294 patent is inherently limited (by virtue of the presence of
the central staff 16) to items having a maximum width of less than
50% of the diameter of the container. While FIG. 2 of the '294
patent depicts food items 38 as fitting comfortably in the area
between the central shaft 16 and the inner wall of the vessel 12,
it will be appreciated that in order for this depicted
configuration to occur, (1) the size of the food items 38 must be
restricted to be less than 50% of the diameter of the vessel 12,
and (2) the diameter of the vessel must be increased to greater
than 50% of the size of the food items. (That is, the design of the
'294 patent does not allow for food items having a diameter greater
than 50% of the diameter of the vessel to be stored there
within.)
[0011] Furthermore, in the design of the '294 patent, the food
items 38 generally remain stationary with respect to the
rotationally moving central staff 16 during operation.
Consequently, the food items 38 are subjected to: (i) frictional
wear with the central shaft during operation thereof; and (ii)
possible binding with the treads 18 of the central shaft during
operation thereof.
[0012] The design of the apparatus disclosed in the '294 patent is
also subject to compromising a vacuum seal within the vessel 12 by
virtue of the seal (34) between the actuator 24 (and shaft 16) and
the floor (36) of the vessel. That is, over time the seal 34 can
become dry if the container is stored for a length of time prior to
use, and can thus allow air to enter the vessel. Likewise, over
time the seal 34 can become dry if the shaft (16) is not rotated
periodically with respect to the seal (34), and thus fluid within
the container can leak from the container.
[0013] Such problems also exist with other products with respect to
tubular containers. Such products can include corn chips, cookies,
crackers, dough, other food items, and non-food items.
[0014] Other prior attempts to address these problems have been to
shorten the height of the containers. While this solution improves
access to some degree, it can significantly increase the costs
associated with packaging. (For example, one company well-known for
this type of packaging for potato chips has come out with a
six-pack of small containers which are short enough to allow easy
access. However, each of these reduced size packages has to be
filled, safety sealed and provided with an individual cap and
canister. This is demonstrative of the level of ordinary skill in
this art. Other approaches may also have been attempted, but to
date none has fully addressed the problems to the complete
satisfaction of consumers. Concerns about these issues have been
expressed for many years to those choosing to package products in
this manner. Some manufacturers have not adopted this type of
product and packaging because of consumer frustration over the
breakage of the theoretically "perfect" potato or other chip or
foodstuff.
[0015] Thus, there has been a long-felt need in the container art
for an inexpensive, and/or manually operated dispensing container
that provides better access to remove products or product pieces
held in a tubular or other suitably shaped container. This need has
been particularly acute where the contents are preferably removed
by first removing a container cap which is used to seal the
container and protect the sealed contents after such contents have
been dispensed.
[0016] Some or all of the problems explained above and other
problems may be helped or solved by the disclosures shown and
described herein below. Such disclosures can also be used to
address other problems not set out above or which develop or are
appreciated at a later time. The future may also bring to light
unknown or currently unappreciated benefits which can in the future
be recognized or appreciated from the disclosure shown and
described herein below.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0017] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a container having
novel features according to the inventions taught herein. A portion
of the container has been removed to show additional aspects and
features of the inventions.
[0018] FIG. 2 is a top view showing the interior lift in isolation
of FIG. 1.
[0019] FIG. 3 is a side elevation view of the interior lift of FIG.
2.
[0020] FIG. 4 is a front sectional view taken along line 4-4 of
FIG. 2.
[0021] FIG. 5 is a rear view of the operator of FIG. 1 in
isolation.
[0022] FIG. 6 is a front view of the operator of FIG. 1 in
isolation.
[0023] FIG. 7 is a top view of the container structure of FIG.
1.
[0024] FIG. 8 is a front view of the container of FIG. 1.
[0025] FIG. 9 is a sectional view taken along line 9-9 of FIG.
7.
[0026] FIG. 10 is a sectional view showing the assembly of FIG. 1
with the elevator lift in a low position.
[0027] FIG. 11 is a sectional view showing the assembly of FIG. 1
with the elevator lift in a partially raised position relative to
the position of FIG. 10.
[0028] FIG. 12 is an exploded view of a second embodiment
implementing features and aspects of the inventions described
herein.
[0029] FIG. 13 is a sectional view of the assembled container shown
in the embodiment of FIG. 12.
[0030] FIG. 14 is an exploded view of a third embodiment
implementing further features and aspects of the inventions
described herein.
[0031] FIG. 15 is a top view of the third embodiment of FIG.
14.
[0032] FIG. 16 is a sectional view taken along line 16-16 of FIG.
15.
[0033] FIG. 17 is an exploded sectional view of a fourth embodiment
according to inventions hereof.
[0034] FIG. 18 is an exploded perspective view showing key
components of a fifth embodiment according to the inventions
hereof.
[0035] FIG. 19 is an exploded sectional view of the embodiment
shown in part in FIG. 8.
[0036] FIG. 20 is a sectional view of the embodiment of FIG. 19
with a cap installed thereon and the lift mechanism moved upwardly
relative to the position of the lift as shown in FIG. 19.
[0037] FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a sixth embodiment
implementing features and aspects of the inventions described
herein.
[0038] FIG. 22 is an exploded view of the embodiment of FIG.
21.
[0039] FIG. 23 is a sectional view of the embodiment of FIG.
21.
[0040] FIG. 24 is a partial isometric exploded view of a seventh
embodiment of a container in accordance with the present
disclosure.
[0041] FIG. 25 is a partial side sectional view of the assembled
container of the seventh embodiment depicted in FIG. 24.
[0042] FIG. 25A is a full side sectional view of the assembled
container of the seventh embodiment depicted in FIGS. 24 and
25.
[0043] FIG. 26 is a an enlarged side sectional view of the upper
right corner of the container of the seventh embodiment depicted in
FIG. 25, depicting one sealing means for sealing the container.
[0044] FIG. 27 is an enlarged side sectional view of an alternative
configuration for the upper right corner of the container of the
seventh embodiment depicted in FIG. 25, depicting another sealing
means for sealing the container.
[0045] FIG. 28 is a partial isometric view of an alternative lift
that can be used with containers provided for by the present
disclosure, showing a contoured lift surface.
[0046] FIG. 29 is a side view of an alternative arrangement of a
container as provided for by the present disclosure which includes
a window to allow for viewing of the position of the lift in the
container.
[0047] FIG. 30 is a partial isometric view of a container as
provided for by the present disclosure which includes a contents
retainer.
[0048] FIG. 31 is an oblique view of an alternative operator that
can be used with containers provided for by the present disclosure,
and which allows for multiple stacks of contents to be provided
within a single container.
[0049] FIG. 32 is a plan view of a container which includes the
alternative operator of FIG. 31.
[0050] FIG. 33 is a partial side sectional view of a container
operator provided for by the present disclosure, and including a
lift lock.
[0051] FIG. 34 is a partial side sectional view a container
operator provided for by the present disclosure used to hold a
candle.
[0052] FIG. 35 is a side sectional view of a container according to
an eighth embodiment in accordance with the present disclosure.
[0053] FIG. 36 is a partial side sectional view of a container
according to a ninth embodiment in accordance with the present
disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0054] The readers of this document should understand that the
embodiments described herein may rely on terminology used in any
section of this document and other terms readily apparent from the
drawings and the language common therefor as may be known in a
particular art and such as known or indicated and provided by
dictionaries. Dictionaries were used in the preparation of this
document. Widely known and used in the preparation hereof (and
without limitation) are Webster's Third New International
Dictionary (copyright 1993), The Oxford English Dictionary (Second
Edition, copyright 1989), The New Century Dictionary (copyright
2001-2005), Merriam Webster's Collegiate Dictionary, 10.sup.th
Edition (copyright 1996), and Webster's Third New International
Dictionary--Unabridged (copyright 1986), all of which are hereby
referenced for interpretation of terms used herein and for
application and use of words defined in such references to more
adequately or aptly describe various features, aspects and concepts
shown or otherwise described herein using more appropriate words
having meanings applicable to such features, aspects and
concepts.
[0055] This document is premised upon using one or more terms or
features shown in one embodiment that can also apply to, or be
combined with, other embodiments for similar structures, functions,
features and aspects of the disclosed concepts. The readers of this
document should further understand that the embodiments described
herein may properly rely on terminology and features used in any
section or embodiment shown in this document and other terms
readily apparent from the drawings and language common or proper
therefor.
[0056] Wording used in the claims is also descriptive of claimed
invention, and the text of both the originally submitted claims,
and abstract, are incorporated by reference into the description
entirely in the form as originally filed. Terminology used with
one, some or all embodiments may be used for describing and
defining the technology and exclusive rights associated
herewith.
First Embodiment and Some Common Features
[0057] General Configuration
[0058] FIG. 1 depicts a preferred embodiment of apparatus or
assembly 1 according to some of the inventions set out herein.
Apparatus 1 is used for both containing and elevating contents held
within a container body to form a combined container and dispenser
apparatus. This apparatus is generally referred to by the reference
number 1.
[0059] The assembly 1 has an outer piece which forms a container
body or canister 51, and a removable cap or other suitable closure
52. The cap or other closure 52 can snap onto and off of the open
end of the container body or canister 51. Alternatively, other
types of closures having threads, bayonet features or other means
adapted for securing the closure to the canister 51 can also be
employed. Additionally, there can be a safety seal (not shown)
applied after packing the canister 51 to assure the consumer that
the container 1 has not been opened and contents removed, tampered
with or adulterated in any manner.
[0060] An operator 30 (see also FIGS. 5 and 6) is positioned within
the container interior and can be manipulated to allow torque to be
applied thereto. The operator can include a slot or groove 32 which
curves up the side of the operator and engages with a follower 15
extending from the lift 10 (see also FIGS. 2-4). The slot or groove
32 has an upper edge 33 and a lower edge 34. As FIG. 1 illustrates
the lower edge 34 can be provided with serrations (37), teeth or
other mechanisms, such as simply friction, to help or prevent the
lift 10 from descending after the lift is elevated (if such is
desired).
[0061] The container 1 can also include a longitudinal feature or
features which restrict or prevent rotary movement of the end of
the follower 15, thus keeping the lift assembly 10 from rotating
with the operator tube 31. The operator 30 is turned in the
appropriate direction and the lift 10 moves upwardly as the
follower 15 is pushed up by the helically curved or otherwise
appropriately shaped slot or groove 32. The serrations 37
(described above) can also be configured and constructed to provide
resistance to keep the lift 10 at a given elevation, or maintain it
at a desired elevation yet allow any retraction into the container
1 which might be desired as depends upon the contents and
dispensing and/or sealed containment functions intended for
use.
[0062] Canister Portion and Closure Cap
[0063] The container 1 has a canister portion 51. Canister 51 is
preferably tubular in shape. The tubular configuration is desirably
provided with a consistent cross-sectional size and shape. As
depicted in the figures, the canister 51 is cylindrical. The
canister can be otherwise suitably shaped to allow operation of the
apparatus 1.
[0064] Canister 51 can be adapted to engage with a cap or closure
52 to form a substantially sealed interior when the cap or other
closure is installed upon or closed with the canister.
[0065] Lift Assembly
[0066] FIGS. 2-4 in particular show one preferred lift assembly 10.
As shown, lift assembly 10 includes a floor 12 surrounded by an
annular sidewall 11, thus forming a void space 13 which can receive
food stuffs and other contents stored within the container 1. For
example, the floor 12 can support foodstuffs, such as potato chips
5 as shown in FIG. 1, in the void 13. The annular sidewall 11 helps
to maintain proper positioning of foodstuff pieces 5 or other
contents within the void (and within the container 1 in general)
and reduces the risk of breakage or other damage. It also
facilitates co-linear sliding within the operator 30, such as
operator tube 31.
[0067] The lower surface of the floor 12 can be recessed to form a
lift bottom recess 14. An aperture 16 allows a rod or other
appropriately shaped follower 15 to extend from the lift assembly
10. The follower 15 can be adhered to, otherwise affixed, or be
part of the lift assembly 10. The follower 15 is intended to be
maintained within a groove 53 (described more fully below).
[0068] Lift Operator:
[0069] The apparatus 1 of FIG. 1 includes an operator 30 (shown in
side view in FIGS. 5 and 6). Operator 30 advantageously includes an
operator feature for moving the lift assembly 10 up and down. As
depicted in the figures, the operator 30 includes a feature which
forces the follower 15 (FIGS. 2-4) in response to torque or turning
force applied to the operator. As shown, such feature is
advantageously in the form of a slot 32 or groove formed in the
sidewall of the operator tube 31. The slot 32 shown can include
serrated teeth or serrations 37 along the lower portions of the
slot. The upper edge 33 of the slot 32 can be smooth or otherwise
desirably shaped. The extending portion of the lift follower 15 is
engaged with the operator slot or other suitable feature, thus
moving the lift assembly up or down as the operator tube is
rotated.
[0070] To facilitate smooth action, the operator 30, and the
operator tube 31, are preferably cylindrically shaped (as depicted
in FIGS. 5 and 6) for rotary and/or longitudinal movement within
the interior cavity of the canister 51. In this way the operator
30, and operator tube 31, can be described as an inner liner which
is concentric with, and located adjacent to, the inner wall of the
canister 51. The operator tube 31 can thus be described as an inner
canister, with the canister 51 being an outer canister. The
operator tube 31 can also be described as an inner sleeve, or an
inner hollow cylinder, with the canister 51 correspondingly being
described as an outer sleeve, or an outer hollow cylinder.
Preferably, the outer wall surface of the operator tube 31 is
located between about 0.5 mm and about 5 mm from the inner wall
surface of the canister 51. More preferably, the outer wall surface
of the operator tube 31 is located between about 1.5 mm and about
3.5 mm from the inner wall surface of the canister 51. As can be
appreciated, the operator tube 31 thus forms a cylindrical hollow
inner tube which is disposed in close proximity to the cylindrical
hollow outer tube of the canister 51. Alternative mechanical
operators are also possible. For example, in one variation
described below the operator is not cylindrical in shape.
[0071] Lift Anti-Rotation Features
[0072] Canister 51 advantageously includes a lift anti-rotator in
the form of guide feature 53 (FIGS. 1, 9, 10 and 11) defined along
an inner or inside wall of the canister 51. As depicted in the
figures, the guide feature 53 can be a groove which receives the
distal end of the follower 15 (see FIG. 10). The guide 53 keeps the
lift assembly 10 from rotating as the operator 30 is turned (i.e.,
rotated with respect to canister 51) to raise or lower the lift
assembly within the canister (e.g., compare FIGS. 10 and 11). This
allows the operator slot or groove 32 to move the lift assembly 10
elevationally as the operator 30 is rotated with respect to the
canister 51.
[0073] FIG. 7 is a plan view of the apparatus 1 depicting the
closure 52 in place on the top of the canister 51, and further
indicating section lines for FIG. 9. FIG. 8 is a side elevation
view of the apparatus 1. FIG. 9 is a side elevation sectional view
of the apparatus 1 depicting the guide 53 within the canister 51
(but omitting the details of the lift 10, and the operator 30, of
FIG. 1).
[0074] With respect to FIGS. 1-11, the apparatus 1 operates as
follows. Lift 10 is disposed within operator tube 31, and operator
tube 31 is disposed within the cylindrical canister 51. (That is,
there is a layered configuration, from outer to inner, of canister
51, operator tube 31, and lift 10.) As operator tube 31 (positioned
between canister 51 and lift 10) rotates with respect to canister
51, the lift 10 is caused to move upward within the operator tube.
More specifically, the follower 15 (which is secured to the lift
10) is placed through the groove 32 of the operator tube 31, and
the end of follower 15 is further positioned within guide 53 of the
canister 51. Thus, as the operator tube 31 is rotated by a user
(while holding the canister 51 stationary with respect to the
rotating operator tube 31), the follower 15 follows along the path
of the helical groove 32, while, and at the same time, remaining
stationary with respect to the canister 51 by virtue of guide 53
(which is a feature formed on the canister 51). In this way as the
operator tube 31 is rotated with respect to the canister 51, the
lift 10 follows the upward curving path of the groove 32, and the
lift 10 (as constrained by guide 53) is moved upward with respect
to the canister 51. During this upward movement of the lift 10, the
lift remains essentially rotationally stationary with respect to
the canister 51. That is, in the first embodiment (depicted in
FIGS. 1-11) the lift 10 and the canister 51 remain essentially
rotationally stable with respect to one another when the operator
tube 31 is being rotated. Put another way, as the user rotates the
operator tube 31 with respect to the canister 51, this rotation of
the operator tube 31 causes the lift 10 to move upward (or
downward, depending on the direction or rotation of the operator
tube) within the operator tube 31, during which time the lift 10
remains essentially rotationally stable with respect to the
canister 51. That is, the canister 51 and the lift 10 are
essentially rotationally fixed to one another (by virtue of
engagement of follower 15 (on lift 10) to the guide 53 on canister
51). Thus, the operator 30 acts as the intermediary component
(disposed between the inner wall of the canister 51, and the outer
wall of the annular sideway 11 (FIG. 4)) to cause this essentially
rotational stationary effect between the canister 51 and the lift
10.
Second Embodiment
[0075] Generally: FIGS. 12 and 13 depict a second embodiment
according to the disclosures provided for herein. Corresponding
features used in the container and dispenser apparatus 101 (FIGS.
12 and 13) are labeled using reference numbers that are the same as
used in the first embodiment (i.e., apparatus 1 of FIGS. 1-11), but
with "100" added to the features described with respect to (e.g.,
"canister 51" of FIGS. 1-11 now becomes "canister 151" with respect
to FIGS. 12-13, and so on). Thus, such common features to both
apparatuses 1 and 101 will not be repeated for sake of brevity.
Significantly differing features included in the apparatus 101
(FIGS. 12-13) will now be described in greater detail.
[0076] Canister
[0077] Canister 151 (FIGS. 12 & 13) is similar to canister 51
(FIGS. 1 & 8-11) but modified by providing a canister groove or
furrow 161 that preferably extends about the periphery of the
canister 151. As shown, this is implemented by placing the furrow
161 near the upper portion of the canister 151. The function of
this modification is further described below.
[0078] Canister 151 can also include a guide 153 (FIGS. 12 &
13) which is also described in further detail below.
[0079] Cap or Closure
[0080] FIGS. 12 and 13 show that the cap 152 or other suitable
closure is somewhat differently shaped than cap 52 (FIGS. 1 &
7-11). Cap 152 is advantageously provided with a seal 154. Seal 154
and cap 152 are constructed so as to retain the seal 154 in
position within the cap by a peripheral wall having an inward
extension 155. Seal 154 can be a flexible or resilient seal which
can be made of a variety of suitable materials, in particular food
grade elastomeric materials in the form of an O-ring. A variety of
suitable materials are known in the art.
[0081] Lift Assembly
[0082] FIGS. 12 and 13 show a modified lift assembly 110. Lift
assembly 110 has a floor 112 which is at or toward the top of the
lift assembly, with a cylindrical side wall 111 depending
therefrom. A follower 115 extends outwardly from the sidewall 111,
and the follower 115 is received in the camming slot 132 (in lift
operator 131) in a manner similar to the first embodiment describe
above.
[0083] Operator
[0084] Apparatus 101 operates in a manner very similar to apparatus
1. It differs therefrom with regard to the longitudinal retainer
described in detail below. FIG. 12 indicates that the operator 131
includes a camming slot 132 with serrations (not illustrated) along
the lower portion 134 of the slot 132. The upper edge 133 of the
slot 132 is spaced from the lower portion 134 by a distance that
allows the follower 115 to be moved by tubular operator 131. Cam
slot 132 thus forces the lift assembly 110 to move upward as the
operator tube 131 is rotated in a clockwise direction with respect
to the canister 151 (as viewed in a top view of the apparatus
101).
[0085] The follower 115 (FIGS. 12 & 13) is held in the guide
153 by virtue of retainer 160, and thus the lift assembly 110 is
forced to move upwardly when the operator tube 131 properly turned
with respect to the canister 151. The lift assembly 110 does not
rotate with the tubular operator 131 because of the engagement
between the follower 115 and the longitudinal retainer 160.
[0086] Longitudinal Retainer
[0087] Another aspect that the second embodiment differs with
regard to the first embodiment is by including a longitudinal
retainer 160 (FIG. 13). The longitudinal retainer 160 helps to
retain the operator tube 131 in proper longitudinal position
relative to the canister 151. As depicted (FIGS. 12 & 13), this
is provided by having the canister retainer groove or furrow 161
formed along the interior wall of the canister 151. In the
embodiment illustrated, the retainer furrow 161 is provided by
having the canister wall formed to a larger diameter at both the
interior wall and exterior wall of the canister 151. Other
configurations can also be suitable.
[0088] The longitudinal retainer 160 also includes a projection 162
(FIG. 13) formed about the tubular operator 131. Other
complementary relationships can also be used relative to the
canister 151 and operator 131 to help the longitudinal position to
be maintained in a nearly or totally restrained condition to aid
operation and also possibly help prevent breakage of fragile
contents (such as potato chips).
[0089] Tubular Operator Flexibility Features
[0090] To allow assembly of the tubular operator 131 into the
canister 151, the upper portion of the operator has not only the
projection 162, but also flexibility slots 141. Slots 141 are
provided at various circumferential positions to provide the needed
flexibility so as to allow assembly of the operator tube 131 into
the canister 151. Once assembled, the slots are captured by the
furrow 161.
Third Embodiment
[0091] Plural Camming or Operating Features
[0092] FIGS. 14-16 illustrate a third embodiment of an elevating
lift dispenser and container in accordance with the current
disclosure. Apparatus 201 is constructed in most respects similar
to the second embodiment 101. Similar features with other
embodiments are numbered similarly except they have 200 added
thereto and are therefore not repeated in their description.
[0093] The primary differences are with regard to having a
plurality of camming features. The plural camming features are used
to aid or improve in balanced operation of the lift assembly.
[0094] As shown, apparatus 201 has not only a camming or operating
slot 232, but also one or more camming or operating features 272,
274 and 276. The features 272, 274 and 276 are in the form of
grooves which receive the alignment projections 271, 273 and 275
which are on lift 210 (FIG. 15). The projection 215 (also on lift
210) extends through a slot 232 which is open through the operator
tube 231. As the operator 231 is rotated or otherwise moved, then
force is transferred from the operator to the lift 210, and the
lift is moved upwardly with plural points of force application. The
plural points of force application are preferably spaced about the
operator 231 and the engagement locations. More preferably, the
plural points of force application between the operator 231 and
lift 210 are approximately evenly spaced, such as at approximately
evenly spaced angular positions about the operator when in the form
of a tubular operator. As FIG. 15 indicates, this can be
conveniently done at approximately 90 degree angularly spaced
positions. Alternatively, other numbers of force application and
engagement positions and configurations made be used as is suitable
to provide the degree of smoothness is operation as desired.
[0095] Lift Assembly With Plural Guide Extensions
[0096] FIGS. 14-16 further show that the lift assembly 210 is
constructed to provide an anti-rotation extension 215 which is
received in a guide tract 253. Additionally, the lift assembly has
plural guide extensions 271, 273, 275 at spaced positions about the
lift assembly as explained above. As shown the guide extensions are
spaced at quarter points of the lift assembly when combined with
the anti-rotation extension 215. The plural guides can be spaced at
approximately equal angular positions. This configuration provides
the operator tube with application of force more equally
distributed about the lift for smoother operation.
[0097] In the version depicted in FIG. 15, the extensions 271, 273
and 275 extend from mounting arms (not numbered) which are defined
by cutout regions 280. The mounting arms provide dimensional
flexibility which facilitate assembly and operation of the lift
assembly 210 into and by the operator tube 251.
[0098] In another aspect it will be appreciated that by using only
one slot 232 and other camming features 271, 273 and 275 which are
solid, then the strength and structural rigidity of the operator,
such as operator tube 230, can be maintained at a higher strength
and rigidity for a given amount of material used.
[0099] Lift Position Indicator
[0100] FIGS. 14-16, and FIG. 16 in particular, show that the
operator tube 230 can have an upper end or brim 239 which extends
longitudinally beyond the upper end 259 of the canister portion 251
(FIG. 14). This extended brim 239 can be marked with a suitable
arrow, line or other indicator which is moved relative to a
canister indicator on end 259 to provide a visual indication of the
approximate relative position of the operator tube 231 in relation
to the canister 251. Exemplary indicator markings can be included
that indicate the canister is full, at some intermediate position,
or near the top for the convenience of the user.
Fourth Embodiment
[0101] FIG. 17 depicts a fourth embodiment 301 otherwise like the
third embodiment 201 except as described next. Similar features
with other embodiments are numbered similarly except they have 300
added thereto and therefore not repeated in their description.
[0102] Operator Tube
[0103] Fourth embodiment 301 has an operator tube 331 and canister
351 which have top edges 339 and 359, respectfully, which extend
about the opening. The top edges are advantageously made so that
they are at, or nearly at, the same position with regard to their
longitudinal position. Thus, in this embodiment the operator 331
tube does not extend outside the canister 351.
[0104] Safety Seal
[0105] The fourth embodiment can also advantageously include a
safety seal 388 which can include a removal tab 389. The safety
seal 388 can be adhered otherwise suitably attached to the upper
ends of the operator tube 331 and canister 351. A removal tab 389
is advantageously included to allow a user to manually grasp the
safety seal 388 and pull it from the apparatus to reveal the
opening. The safety seal 388 is intended to prevent tampering or
adulteration of the contents. It is removed upon initial or first
opening and then discarded.
[0106] Removable Cap
[0107] After the safety seal has been initially removed the cap 352
can be used by installing or re-installing it onto the canister 351
and remaining parts of the apparatus to effectively reseal the
interior chamber. Cap 352 can be removed to allow removal of the
foodstuffs or other contents from the canister 351. Removal of cap
352 also allows a user to manually insert the user's fingers (or
otherwise suitable apply force or torque) to the operator and
thereby operate the lift.
Fifth Embodiment
[0108] FIGS. 18-20 depict a fifth preferred embodiment 401
according to disclosures provided for herein. Similar features with
other embodiments are numbered similarly except they have 400 added
thereto and therefore not repeated in their description.
[0109] Canister
[0110] The fifth embodiment apparatus 401 has a lower or canister
portion 451 which is similar to the canister 351 of the fourth
embodiment. The areas of difference will now be described.
[0111] Canister 451 advantageously has a longitudinal restraint
feature 461 used to help maintain the relative longitudinal
position between canister 451 and the inner member 431. As
depicted, the inner member 431 has a projecting rib 462 which
extends into a receiving furrow 461 as is explained hereinabove in
detail.
[0112] Canister 451 differs in that it is provided with features
that form part of the operator. More specifically, the canister 451
can have features which function as part of the operator used to
move the lift 410.
[0113] Canister Lift Operator Features
[0114] The preferred features of the canister 451 which serve as
part of the operator are advantageously used to force the lift 410.
As depicted, this can advantageously be implemented in the form of
inwardly extending features, such as the inwardly extending
projections which are shaped to help move the lift 410
longitudinally in response to movement, such as rotation of the
inner member or tube 431. As depicted, this can be implemented
using projections, such as a series of helical projections 490,
492, 494, and 496. Such projections are advantageously formed so as
to extend twice around the interior wall of the canister 451. This
configuration can also be considered a four lead interior thread
configuration which moves the lift 410 from near the low position
to the top position after two relative rotations between the inner
part or tube 431 and the outer or canister part 451.
[0115] Inner Part or Tube
[0116] FIG. 18 depicts that the inner part or tube 431 has top
features providing the longitudinal retainer 460 as described above
specifically the projection 462 that extend into furrow 461 of the
outer tube and there are flexibility slots 441 (FIG. 18).
[0117] The inner tube 431 is also provided with longitudinal guide
slots 482, 484, 486 and 488 which are spaced angularly to receive
the projections of the lift 410 which are numbered 481, 483, 485
and 487.
[0118] Lift
[0119] Contrary to other embodiments the lift in this fifth
embodiment provides that the lift 410 rotates with the inner part
or tube 431. The lift projections 481, 483, 485 and 487 (FIG. 18)
can be mounted on flexible arms on the lift 410, as described
hereinabove. The lift projections extend through the longitudinal
slots 481, 483, 485 and 487 and are advanced by the interior
helical projections 490, 492, 494 and 496 which are formed on the
inner wall of the outer tube or canister 451. In operation, the
inner part 431 and lift 410 rotate together and the lift moves
upward such as between the positions of the lift shown in FIG. 19
to an elevated or extended lift position as shown in FIG. 20. The
lift 410 can optionally be provided with perforations (480) in
order to allow any liquid to drain from the lift as the lift is
moved above the liquid level in the container. One advantage of the
configuration depicted in FIGS. 18-20 is that the contents within
the container 401 remain static with respect to the lift 410 and
the inner tube 431 as the lift moves upward (other than with
respect to upward motion). That is, in operation the contents do
not rotate with respect to the inner tube 431 and/or the lift 410.
This reduces that chance for the contents to be damaged by
contacting moving parts.
More About Methods Performed and Manners of Use
[0120] Methods Concerning Manner of Use
[0121] The invention is typically used by installing the parts into
the assemblies depicted and described above. FIG. 10 shows the lift
assembly relatively low within the canister 51. Cap 52 is removed
and the person operating the apparatus 1 applies torque to the
operator 31 which turns in response thereto.
[0122] As the follower 15 is held against rotating by engaging with
the guide groove or other guide feature 53 the apparatus functions
as an anti-rotating mechanism. The follower 15 extends through the
cam slot 32 formed in the operator, such as operator tube 31.
Turning of the operator 31 is performed by applying torque to the
operator. This turning action causes the follower 15 to be forced
upwardly or downwardly depending on the direction of rotating
movement and shape and slope of the cam slot 32.
[0123] Operating the apparatus by turning the operator 31 in the
proper direction forces the lift assembly 11 upward. This results
in elevating the lift assembly 11 and presenting the contents
supported upon the lift assembly to a user in a conveniently
available position. Thus the apparatus functions by operating the
operator which functions by typically elevating the lift assembly
and any supported foodstuffs or other contents.
[0124] The operating is preferably performed so as to provide
positioning of the lift assembly 11 at an elevation wherein the
next chip, treat or other contents are near the top opening of the
canister 51. The user then typically uses the device simply by
operating the operator 31, such as by rotating the operator tube by
torquing the tube or angularly displacing the operator tube.
[0125] Although this is preferably done in a simple, inexpensive
manually operated device, other implementations are also possible
to perform the desired functions and methods of operation. In an
exemplary application of use, potato chips 5 (FIG. 1) or other
appropriate foodstuffs (such as cookies, crackers, olives and/or
other items) are elevated into position for easy manual grasping
and dispensing of the foodstuff (or other contents) from the
container 1.
[0126] Methods according hereto can also include restraining the
lift to prevent downward motion. This can be accomplished by using
teeth or serrations which perform a catching function. This is
advantageously used in preventing the lift assembly 10 (FIG. 3)
from inadvertently dropping within the canister 51. The maintaining
of the lift assembly 10 can be by serrations 37 (FIG. 5) which
retard movement of the follower 15 within the operator slot 32.
Alternatively the operator 31 can be prevented from inadvertent
movement by properly sizing the operator with respect to the
canister 51 to provide frictional restraining of the operator.
[0127] As the lift assembly 10 moves up (or theoretically also
downward) the follower 15 tends to stay within or against the
canister guide feature 53, which performs an anti-rotating
function.
[0128] Upon removal of the desired contents, the operator 31 can be
turned to lower the lift assembly 10 if desired, needed or as
allowed depending on the specific embodiment used.
[0129] It is noteworthy that the methods are performed with both
the contents and operator fully within the inside of canister 51.
Thus the methods can further be described as having a opening and
closing capability by removing or installing the cap or other
closure 52. The cap can be held in position by snap fitting the cap
over a top marginal rim of the canister to thus provide an
enclosing function which acts by sealing or substantially sealing
the interior of the apparatus.
Manner of Use of Fifth Embodiment
[0130] According to the fifth embodiment the manners of use and
methods performed thereby include selecting an assembly having the
features described hereinabove with regard to the fifth embodiment.
The methods can further include removing any safety seal, such as
the illustrated safety seal 500 (FIGS. 19, 20) as may be
facilitated by pulling on the tab 501. Once the safety seal 500 has
been removed, then the opening of the apparatus 401 is done by
removing the cap 452. Conversely, closing or resealing the
apparatus 401 is accomplished by installing the cap 452 onto the
top of the apparatus and thus substantially sealing or re-sealing
the apparatus thus helping maintain freshness of the contents and
containing them within the container apparatus.
[0131] The operational methods performed include rotating the inner
part or tube 431 (FIG. 18) relative to the outer part or canister
451. This also causes rotating of the lift 410. The lift 410 is
adapted and positioned such that rotating the tube 431 and lift
assembly results in engaging of the lift engagement extensions
(481, 483, 485 and 487) relative to the inward features (490, 492,
494, 496) of the outer part or tube 451. The inwardly directed and
preferred helices cause the lift engagement features to advance up
or otherwise toward the opening through which the contents can be
removed. The relative rotating of the two parts causes in practical
use lifting of the foodstuffs or other contents upwardly for
facilitating manually grasping the contents.
[0132] After the lift 410 has been operated by moving and
positioning the lift to a desired position then the user may remove
the uppermost contents. This is usually done by simply engaging the
hands and fingers of the user with the top-most contents and
extracting them at the convenient position achieved by adjusting
the lift height by turning the inner tube 431 relative to the outer
tube 451.
[0133] After the user has extracted the contents to the degree or
extent desired, then, the methods can include resealing the
apparatus 401 by installing the cap 452 onto the open end and
occluding the opening in a substantially sealing relationship.
More About Preferred Manners of Making
[0134] Other methods according to the current disclosure can
include constructing or making or providing a suitable container or
containers having the various described features. The container can
be made from paper fiber material as is well known in current
containers of this type. The making also advantageously includes
selecting a canister material that is made by coating or layering
the inside, outside or both of the canister with low permeability
materials such as aluminum or other metallic coating along the
inner wall, outer wall or both. Alternatively, the inner wall,
outer wall or both can be made by using other coatings having low
air permeability or selecting materials of low permeability to
effect maintaining of the flavor of the contents within the
container as sold and after resealing with the installing of the
cap or other closure.
[0135] Alternatively, the apparatuses according hereto can be
molded, such as in plastic, glass, and/or appropriate metals (for
example) according to known techniques. They can also be fabricated
from these and other materials indicated above and equivalents
thereof. One suitable form of manufacturing the components of the
apparatus is by a technique commonly referred to as blow molding.
This in particular can be used in fabricating one or both of the
inner tube and the outer canister. Alternatively, the canister can
in some or all forms be made using paperboard or mixtures of a
variety of suitable materials used and now known or hereafter
developed for the packaging industry and the food packaging
industry in most applications.
[0136] The making processes can also include positioning the lift
assembly, (which can be made of suitable materials, such as food
grade plastics or paperboard, and can be either coated or uncoated,
as needed). The lift assembly (e.g., 410, FIG. 19) can be assembled
into the apparatus (e.g., 401) by inserting it into the operator
(e.g., 431), such as by inserting the lift assembly into the
operator tube as indicated above. The operator (431) can then be
further assembled into the apparatus (401) by installing the
operator into the canister (451). Optionally, the apparatus can be
assembled by applying a safety seal (e.g., 500, FIG. 19) to perform
a safety sealing of the contents until the time of sale.
[0137] In the embodiments having a longitudinal restraint
construction (e.g., longitudinal restraint 461, FIG. 19), the
operator (e.g., 431) is assembled by inserting the operator until
the longitudinal restraint couples with the complementary furrow
(e.g., 461) or restraining feature which is advantageously included
during the manufacturing of the canister (e.g., 451).
Sixth Embodiment
[0138] FIGS. 21-23 depict a sixth embodiment 601 in accordance with
the present disclosure. Features of the sixth embodiment are
similar to those of other embodiments (and in particular, the fifth
embodiment), and are numbered similarly except that they have 600
added thereto. Furthermore, description of certain features of the
sixth embodiment similar to those of other embodiments are not
repeated herein with the exception of certain features notable to
the sixth embodiment.
[0139] Container
[0140] The sixth embodiment apparatus 601 includes an outer
container or canister 651 that can be similar to the canisters of
other embodiments described herein. For example, the outer
container 651 can be similar to the canister 451 of the fifth
embodiment. The areas of difference will now be described.
[0141] The outer container 601 can be adapted to contain or store
therein articles such as foodstuffs or the like, including (but not
limited to) items held in a liquid bath. For example, the container
601 can be adapted to store or contain therein olives, peppers,
pickles and the like, which are typically packaged in a liquid
brine or other liquid bath suitable for emersion of solid contents.
It is to be further understood that the contents of the container
601 need not be edible foodstuffs. For example, the container 601
can be suitable or adapted to store inedible objects.
[0142] Inasmuch as the container 601 can be adapted for storing
contents held in a liquid bath, the container can be advantageously
fabricated from a material and/or in a manner so as to render the
container at least substantially liquid proof or leak proof.
Specifically, the outer container (or canister) 651 can be a
one-piece leak proof component adapted to contain a liquid therein.
For storing foodstuffs in general, it is desirable that the outer
container 651 be formed such as to eliminate any openings save for
the upper opening which allows items to be inserted into, and
removed from, the container 601.
[0143] The container 601 can include one or more engagement
features 690, 692, 694. One or more of the container engagement
features 690, 692, 694 can be adapted to receive therein at least a
portion of the lift 610. More specifically, one or more of the
container engagement features 690, 692, 694 can be configured to
receive therein a respective lift projection 681 (FIG. 22). In
accordance with an exemplary embodiment, the container engagement
features 690, 692, 694 can be in the form of cam features as is
explained hereinabove with regard to the other specific
embodiments. However, it is to be understood that in accordance
with an alternative embodiment not specifically depicted, an
engagement feature defined on the canister 651 can be in the form
of a longitudinal feature similar to the longitudinal feature 253
depicted in FIG. 14.
[0144] As is depicted in FIGS. 21-23, one or more of the cam
features 690, 692, 694 can curve up the side of the outer canister
651. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the present
disclosure, one or more of the cam features 690, 692, 694 can curve
in an approximate helical shape up the side of the canister 651.
One or more of the engagement features 690, 692, 694 can be
substantially in the form of a groove. More specifically one or
more of the engagement features 690, 692, 694 can be substantially
in the form of a groove that is molded into the canister 651.
[0145] One or more of the engagement features (or cam features)
690, 692, 694 can function at least substantially in the manner of
the canister lift operator features described herein with respect
to the fifth embodiment. Specifically, one or more of the cam
features 690, 692, 694 can be adapted to engage at least a portion
of the lift 610. More specifically, one or more of the cam features
690, 692, 694 can be adapted to help move the lift 610
longitudinally in response to either rotation of the lift 610 or
rotation of the inner member (inner liner, or operator) 631.
Longitudinal movement of the lift 610 can correspond to lifting or
raising of the lift toward the container opening.
[0146] One or more of the engagement features 690, 692, 694 can
extend at least once around the wall of the canister 651. In
accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure,
the canister 651 includes a first container feature 690, a second
container feature 692, and a third container feature 694. The
exemplary embodiment depicted in FIGS. 21-23 can thus be considered
a three lead configuration. The depicted exemplary configuration is
adapted to move the lift 610 from near the low position to near the
top position after slightly more than one relative rotation between
the inner part (inner liner, or operator tube) 631 and the outer
container 651. It will also be appreciated that by providing less
engagement features, or configuring the engagement features at a
lower pitch, more turns of the operator tube 631 can be required in
order to advance the lift 610 from the lowermost position to the
uppermost position within the canister 651.
[0147] Inner Part or Tube
[0148] FIGS. 22 and 23 depict that the inner part or tube 631 can
have top features providing a longitudinal retainer 641, which can
function and/or can be configured substantially in the manner of
the retainer 460 described herein with respect to at least one
other exemplary embodiment.
[0149] The inner part (inner liner) or operator tube 631 can be
provided with at least one engagement feature 682 (FIG. 22). The
inner part engagement feature 682 can be in the form of a
longitudinal guide feature as is depicted in FIGS. 21-23. More
specifically, the inner part engagement feature 682 can be in the
form of a longitudinal guide slot. It is to be understood, however,
that in accordance with at least one alternative embodiment of the
disclosure, the inner part engagement feature 682 can be in the
form of a cam feature such as depicted in FIG. 14 and as is
described herein with respect thereto. In accordance with the
exemplary embodiment depicted in FIGS. 21-23, the inner part (inner
cylinder, or operator tube) 631 includes three longitudinal guide
features 682 spaced at substantially even intervals about the inner
part or tube.
[0150] The inner part or tube 631 can include one or more spacing
features 698. The spacing feature 698 can provide a slight space or
gap between the inner part 631 and the outer container 651, as is
evident from a study of FIG. 23. As is also evident, such a space
or gap provided by the spacing feature 698 can help to provide a
substantially tight fit of the inner part (inner liner) 631 within
the canister (outer liner) 651 while also substantially avoiding
any resistance, binding, interference or the like, which might
otherwise occur as the result of surface-to-surface contact
occurring between the inner part and container. As depicted in FIG.
23, there can be upper, medial and lower spacing features 698.
[0151] The inner part or tube 631 can include a top feature 699
(FIG. 22). As is depicted in the exemplary embodiment, the top
feature 699 can be substantially in the form of a series of outward
projections arranged about the upper portion of the inner part 631.
The top feature 699 can serve one or more various purposes. For
example, the top feature 699 can serve to facilitate grasping or
otherwise gaining at least a partial hold on the inner part 631 for
the purpose of turning the inner part relative to the container
651. Such turning of the inner part 631 relative to the outer
container 651 can result in operation of mechanism to move the lift
610 as is similarly described and depicted herein with respect to
the other exemplary embodiments. The top feature 699 can also be
substantially in the form of a series of inward projections
arranged about the upper portion of the inner part 631.
[0152] Lift
[0153] In a manner similar to that depicted and described herein
with respect to other exemplary embodiments, the apparatus 601 of
the sixth embodiment is configured such that the lift 610 is moved
substantially longitudinally between a lower and upper position
relative to the canister (or outer sleeve, or outer container) 651.
Depending upon the specific configuration of the canister 651 and
of the inner part 631, such longitudinal movement of the lift 610
can be associated with corresponding rotation of the lift relative
to the canister 651, the inner part (operator, or inner sleeve)
631, or both.
[0154] In accordance with the exemplary embodiment depicted in
FIGS. 21-23, longitudinal movement of the lift 610 is associated
with corresponding rotation of the lift relative to the canister
651 and rotation of the lift substantially along with rotation of
the inner part 631. The apparatus 601 can be configured such that
each of the lift projections 681 (FIG. 22) on lift 610 engages both
a respective longitudinal feature (682) and a cam feature (690,
692, 694).
[0155] More specifically, in the exemplary embodiment depicted in
FIGS. 21-23, the apparatus 601 can be assembled such that each of
the lift projections 681 (on lift 610) is projecting through a
respective longitudinal slot 682 in the inner part 631, as well as
projecting substantially into a corresponding cam feature (690,
692, 694) in the outer container (canister, or outer sleeve) 651.
Accordingly, when in such a state of assembly, rotation of the
inner part 631 relative to the outer container 651 can cause the
lift projections 681 to be advanced along each respective cam
groove 690, 692, 694, thereby resulting in longitudinal movement of
the lift 610 between a lower and an upper position relative to the
canister 651. Detailed discussion and explanation of similar lift
mechanisms are described hereinabove with respect to the other
exemplary embodiments.
[0156] As is seen from a study of FIG. 22, the lift 610 can have at
least one drain opening 612. In accordance with at least one
embodiment of the present disclosure, the lift 610 can be
perforated, wherein the lift 610 can define therein at least one
perforation. More specifically, the lift 610 can define a plurality
of perforations, openings or apertures therein. As is depicted in
FIG. 22, the lift 610 can be substantially in the form of a grate
or grating having a plurality of curvilinear openings or slits 612
arranged in series of substantially concentric circular patterns.
Alternatively, the lift can simply have sufficient clearance about
the periphery to allow draining of the emersion liquid 613 (see
FIG. 23).
[0157] The lift 610 can be configured to support thereon specific
or predetermined types of articles, products, or objects, while
also allowing liquid to drain through, off, or around the lift
(e.g., by virtue of drain openings 612). Such a configuration can
be advantageous when the apparatus 601 is employed for storing
articles in a liquid bath. More particularly, such a configuration
can allow at least a portion of the articles supported on the lift
610 and within the container 601 to be raised above the upper level
of a liquid bath (613) by operation of the lift mechanism 610 to
facilitate removal of at least a portion of the articles from the
container 601. In accordance with the exemplary embodiment depicted
in FIGS. 21-23, a liquid bath is allowed to drain substantially
through the lift 610 at least in part because of the lift being
configured substantially in the form of a grate or grating having
one or more openings (612) defined therein. The inclusion of
openings 612 in the lift is also useful when the container 601 is
used to hold dry items (such as snack items) to thereby allows
small crumbs, seasoning particles (e.g., salt) and the like to drop
below the lift and not be presented to the user.
[0158] Manner of Use of the Sixth Embodiment
[0159] The container apparatus 601 of the sixth embodiment (as
depicted in FIGS. 21-23) is typically used by installing the parts
into the assemblies described herein with respect to FIGS. 21-23. A
cap or lid (not shown, but as per lid 452 of FIG. 19) can be
employed with the apparatus 601 generally in the manner described
herein with respect to the other exemplary embodiments. A user of
the apparatus 601 can unseal the container by removing such cap or
lid. The user can manipulate the apparatus 601 to rotate the inner
part 631 relative to the container 651. Such rotation of the inner
part 631 relative to the outer container 651 will cause the
followers 681 to be forced upwardly (or downwardly, depending on
the relative direction of rotating movement, and the slope or shape
of the cam features 690, 692, 694).
[0160] Operating the apparatus 601 by turning the inner part 631 in
the proper direction relative to the canister 651 with the assembly
601 in an upright orientation forces the lift 610 in an upward
direction. This results in elevating the lift 610, and raising at
least a portion of any contents stored within the inner liner 631
above any liquid bath 613. Elevation of the lift 610 can result in
presenting the contents supported thereon to a user in a
conveniently available position by raising at least the upper
portion of the contents out of the liquid bath 613.
[0161] After the contents are lifted in the manner described above
to facilitate removal of at least a portion of the contents
supported on the lift 610, the apparatus 601 can then be
manipulated so as to lower the contents toward a lower position to
at least substantially place the contents back into the liquid bath
613. This can be accomplished, for example, by rotating the inner
part 631 relative to the canister 651 in a direction opposite that
required to move the lift 610 toward the upper position, as
described herein above.
[0162] According to the sixth embodiment, the manners of use and
methods performed thereby include selecting an assembly having the
features described and/or depicted herein with respect to the sixth
embodiment. The manners of use further can include one or more
methods or actions shown and/or described herein with respect to
the other exemplary embodiments.
[0163] Specific exemplary embodiments associated with the sixth
embodiment can include one or more of the following actions. An
apparatus such as the apparatus 601 can be selected to have a
canister (e.g., 651) with an opening and a substantially liquid
proof interior compartment, as well as a lift operator (e.g., 631)
substantially within the compartment, and a removable closure
(e.g., lid 452 of FIG. 19) that can be used to open or reseal the
canister. The canister 651 can be packed with a liquid bath (e.g.,
613, FIG. 23) and at least one article within the liquid bath. The
closure (e.g., lid 452 of FIG. 19) can be removed so that the lift
610 can be operated to move at least a portion of an article
supported by the lift above the liquid bath (613) and toward the
opening. At least a portion of the article (supported by the lift
610) can then be removed from the canister 651. The canister 651
can be resealed by installing the closure (e.g., 452, FIG. 19) over
the opening.
[0164] In accordance with at least one embodiment of the present
disclosure, the contents of the canister (e.g., 651) can be a
foodstuff held in a liquid bath (e.g., 613, FIG. 23), which can be
a liquid bath for the purpose of substantially preserving one or
more characteristics of the foodstuff. In accordance with at least
one embodiment of the present disclosure, the lift 610 is
configured to facilitate drainage of the liquid bath
therethrough.
[0165] More About Preferred Manners of Making the Sixth
Embodiment
[0166] Other methods according to the present disclosure can
include constructing or making or providing an apparatus in
accordance with the sixth embodiment. The outer container (or
canister) 651, the inner part (inner liner, or operator) 631, the
lift 610, as well as other components, can be made from a suitable
liquid-proof material. For example, the canister 651, as well as
other components, can be made from ceramic, metal, glass, plastic,
or poly material, as well as other materials coated or lined with a
liquid impermeable barrier or liner. The canister 651 can be
fabricated in a manner to resist leakage of liquid contents. For
example, the canister 651 can be fabricated according to a process
so as to produce a substantially unitary, or one-piece
liquid-bearing container.
[0167] The canister 651, and the inner part 631, can be configured
and/or made from a material suitable to allow the contents of the
container to be viewed from outside the container. For example, the
canister 651 and the inner part 631 can be fabricated from a
substantially transparent material such as various plastics and
glass, or other suitable materials now known or hereafter
developed. A transparent canister 651 and/or inner part 631 can be
particularly advantageous for use in apparatus 601 marketed or
otherwise used as storage devices for one or more various types of
foodstuffs since this will allow the foodstuff contents of the
container 601 to be viewed by a user.
[0168] As an alternative to fabricating the inner part 631 from a
transparent material, the inner part can be configured to have
little or no sidewalls. For example, the inner part 631 can be
fabricated substantially from lengths of metal rod or other
materials or provided with openings to reduce materials.
Alternatively, the inner part 631 can be fabricated so as to be
substantially open to facilitate viewing of the contents of the
container 601.
[0169] The container features (or canister engagement features)
690, 692, 694 can be made using any of a number of various means.
The container features 690, 692, 694 can be made as part of the
container forming process. For example, the container features 690,
692, 694 can be molded into the container 651 when the container is
formed by a molding process. Alternatively, the container features
690, 692, 694 can be made after the canister 651 is formed. For
example, the container features 690, 692, 694 can be formed by
routing after the canister 651 is formed, or can be applied onto
the canister 651 after the canister is formed.
Seventh Embodiment
[0170] Turning now to FIG. 24, an exploded view of a container 701
in accordance with the present disclosure is depicted in a partial
isometric side view. FIG. 25 is a partial sectional view of the
container 701 in an assembled form. FIGS. 24 and 25 will be
described together. As an initial item, it will be appreciated that
the assembled container 701 of FIG. 25 differs from the container
601 of FIG. 21 in at least one significant manner. Specifically, in
the container 601 the inner liner/actuator 631 (FIG. 22) fits
entirely within the outer sleeve (or canister) 651. Thus, in order
to actuate the lift 612, the user must place one or more fingers
inside the container 601 to contact one or more of the top features
699 to cause the operator 631 to rotate within the outer sleeve
651. This can be disadvantageous since it increases the opportunity
for foreign matter to be introduced into the container 601 by the
user's fingers, and also makes it easier for the user's fingers to
become soiled or contaminated by contents within the container 601.
By contrast, the container 701 of FIG. 25 includes an operator 731
having an upper gripping ring 726 which protrudes above the top
edge of the outer sleeve or canister 751. The gripping ring 726 can
be provided with gripping features (such as the gripping serrations
depicted in FIG. 24) to aid the user in gripping the ring. In this
way the user can grasp the gripping ring 726 of the operator 731 to
cause the operator to rotate without having to insert one or more
fingers into the container 701.
[0171] The container 701, as depicted in FIG. 24, includes the
following components: (i) an outer container (or canister) 751; an
inner part (or operator) 731; and a lift 710. A lid or cap 752 can
also be optionally provided to close the container 701. The
canister 751, inner part (or operator) 731 and lift 710 generally
fit together and operate as described above with the sixth
embodiment of FIGS. 21 through 23. A cross section side view of the
assembled container 701 is depicted in FIG. 25A. The various
components of the container 701 depicted in FIG. 24 will now be
described.
[0172] Canister: The canister 751 (FIGS. 24, 25 and 25A) includes a
main body portion 757 which is preferably cylindrical in shape and
is defined by a canister main body portion inside diameter D1 (FIG.
25A). The canister 751 includes a canister bottom 715 at a first
end of the canister main body portion 757, and a canister upper
flange portion 729 at a second end of the canister main body
portion. The canister upper flange portion 729 is defined by a
canister upper flange portion inside diameter D2 (FIG. 25A), which
is also the canister main opening diameter. The canister main body
portion 757 includes one or more container (or canister) engagement
features 790, 792, 794. Preferably, the canister 751 includes at
least two container engagement features (e.g., 790 and 792) to
reduce tipping of the lift (710) within the operator 731 (described
below). More preferably, the canister 751 includes at least three
container engagement features (e.g., 790, 792 and 794) to further
reduce tipping of the lift (710) within the operator 731. As
described above with respect to container 601, container engagement
features 790, 792, 794 (or container 701) can comprise essentially
parallel helical grooves formed in the canister 751, and which
protrude outward of the outer surface of the canister main body
portion 757. The container engagement features 790, 792, 794
receive the lift projections (lift lugs) 781 of the lift 710
(described below) to allow the lift to move upward and downward in
the container 701. As described above with respect to FIG. 5, one
or more of the container engagement features 790, 792, 794, and/or
one or more of the operator engagement features 782 (describe
below), can be provided with unidirectional angular serrations
(such as the angular serrations 37 of FIG. 5) to assist in keeping
the lift 710 from descending within the operator 731 after the lift
has been previously elevated (if such is desired). The canister
upper flange portion 729 terminates at a canister upper lip 716.
The canister upper lip 716 defines a canister main opening 707.
Defined within the canister upper flange portion 729 is a securing
feature receiver 724. As described below, the securing feature
receiver 724 receives a securing feature on the operator (or
container inner part) 731 to retain the operator within the
canister 751. As depicted, the securing feature receiver 724
comprises a groove formed outwardly of the canister upper flange
portion 729. The canister upper flange portion 729 can also include
one or more lid engagement features 728 which can be used to allow
a lid to be secured to the top of the container 701. In the
variation depicted in FIGS. 24, 25 and 25A the lid engagement
features 728 comprise lid thread features to allowed a
twist-on-twist-off lid to be fastened to the top of the container
701. Container closing and sealing means will be described further
below.
[0173] Operator 731: As indicated above, the operator 731 (FIGS.
24, 25 and 25A) can also be described as the inner part of the
container 701. The operator 731 includes an operator main body
portion 733. As depicted in FIGS. 24, 25 and 25A the operator main
body portion 733 is cylindrical in shape. However, as will be
described below, in certain variations the operator main body
portion 733 can be in shapes other than cylindrical. In the
variation depicted in FIGS. 24, 25 and 25A, the operator can be
referred to as an inner sleeve since the operator main body portion
733 essentially fits into canister main body portion 757 much like
an inner sleeve, i.e., with the outside surface of the operator
main body portion 733 being located adjacent the inner surface of
the canister main body portion 757. The operator main body portion
733 can include spacing features 798 formed on the outside of the
operator main body portion. As described above, the spacing
features 798 serve to provide a slight space between the outer
surface of the operator 731 and the inner surface of the canister
751. Providing space between the outer surface of the operator 731
and the inner surface of the canister 751 reduces frictional forces
between the two surfaces, allowing the operator to turn or rotate
more easily within the canister 751. As depicted in FIG. 24, the
operator 730 includes four spacing features 798 which are
essentially parallel raised rings. The spacing features 798 can be
other shapes such a longitudinal ribs, helical rings, or any raised
projection formed on the outside of the operator 731. Less
preferably, the spacing features 798 can be formed on the inside
wall of the canister 751. The operator main body portion 733 is
defined by an operator outside diameter D3 (FIG. 24). When spacing
features (798) are provided on the outer surface of the operator
731, then the operator outside diameter D3 is measured at the outer
edges of the spacing features. The operator outside diameter D3 is
selected to allow the operator 731 to be received within the
canister 751 and allow rotation of the operator within the
canister. The operator main body portion outside diameter D3 is
substantially equal (or similar) to the canister main body portion
inside diameter D1, i.e., the two diameters preferably differ from
another one by less than about 5 percent of either diameter. In a
first variation the operator outside diameter D3 is selected to be
essentially the same as the canister main body portion inside
diameter D1 (FIG. 25A). This first variation allows for a slight
drag to be imposed between the spacing features 798 and the inside
surface of the canister 751. In a second variation the operator
outside diameter D3 is selected to be smaller than the canister
main body portion inside diameter D1. This second variation allows
for freer rotation of the operator 731 within the canister 751. In
a third variation the operator outside diameter D3 is selected to
be slightly larger than the canister main body portion inside
diameter D1 so that the operator 731 is force-fit inside of the
canister 751. This third variation allows for more drag to be
applied between the spacing features 798 and the inside surface of
the canister 751, and can be useful to ensure that the operator 731
does not autorotate due to the weight of contents within the
container 701. Desirably the operator main body portion outside
diameter D3 is between about 90 percent and 110 percent of the
canister main body portion inside diameter D1. It is understood
that an operator main body portion outside diameter D3 which is
greater than 100 percent of the canister main body portion inside
diameter D1 presents a forced fit situation between the operator
731 and the canister 751. This forced fit situation can be
accommodated by fabricating one of both of the canister 751 and the
operator 731, or portions thereof, from a flexible material which
allows sufficient deformation in the canister 751 and/or the
operator 731 in order to allow the oversized canister main body
portion 733 to be received within the canister 751.
[0174] The operator main body portion 733 includes operator
engagement features 782, which can be similar to the inner part
engagement features 682 described above with respect to container
601. As depicted in FIG. 24, the operator engagement features 782
comprise one or more slots which are oriented along the length of
the operator main body portion 733. The slots 782 are formed
through the sidewall of the operator main body portion 733 to allow
the left projections 781 on the lift 710 to protrude through the
slots 782 and engage the canister engagement features 790, 792, 794
(as will be described more fully below). Preferably the slots 782
terminate prior to the lower end of the operator 730 such that the
lift 710 does not pass through the lower end of the operator.
Similar to the discussion above with respect to canister engagement
features 790, 792 and 794, preferably operator 731 includes two
operator engagement features 782, and more preferably three
operator engagement features. In general, there should be one
operator engagement feature 782 for each canister engagement
feature (790, etc.). The operator 731 further includes an operator
upper flange portion 717. The operator upper flange portion 717
defines an operator upper lip 725 around the operator/container
main opening 702 through which contents can be extracted from the
container 701. The operator upper flange portion 717 is defined by
an operator flange outside diameter D4 (FIG. 24). Operator flange
outside diameter D4 is selected to allow a portion of the operator
flange 717 to be received within the canister flange 729 and rotate
therein. As such, the operator flange outside diameter D4 is
preferably slightly smaller than the canister flange inside
diameter D2 (FIG. 25A). In the variation depicted in FIGS. 24, 25
and 25A the operator upper flange portion 717 includes a gripping
ring 726. The gripping ring 726 is defined by a gripping ring
diameter D5 (FIG. 25A) which is larger than the canister flange
inside diameter D2, such that the gripping ring 726 rides on the
canister upper lip 716 (as depicted in FIGS. 25 and 25A). In the
embodiment depicted in FIG. 24 the operator engagement features 782
include operator engagement feature extensions 783 which extend
upwards into a portion of the operator upper flange portion 717.
The useful function of operator engagement feature extensions 783
will be described below. The operator upper flange portion 717 can
also include operator securing features 722. The securing features
722 are depicted as being protrusions above the outer surface of
the operator flange 717. During assembly of the container 701, as
the operator 731 is inserted into the canister 751, the securing
features 722 will snap into the securing feature receiver 724 in
the canister flange 729, thus securing the operator to the
canister.
[0175] Lift 710: The lift 710 (FIGS. 24, 25) can be the same as, or
similar to, the lift 610 described above with respect to container
601. That is, the lift 710 includes a lift main body 711 and one of
more lift projections 781 which extend from the outer edge of the
lift body portion 711. As depicted in FIG. 24 the lift 710 includes
three lift projections 781 in the shape of pins or lugs which are
equally radially disposed about the outer periphery of the lift
body 711. The use of three lift projections shown in FIG. 24
corresponds to the three canister engagement features (helixes 790,
792 and 794) in canister 751, and the three operator engagement
features (slots 782) in the operator 731. In general, the number of
lift projections 781 should correspond to the number of operator
engagement features 782 and canister engagement features (790, 792
and 794). The length of the lift projections 781 beyond the outer
edge of the lift body 711 is selected to allow the lift projections
to pass through the operator engagement features (slots 782) and be
received within the canister engagement features (helixes) 790, 792
and 794. The lift 710 can optionally include openings 712 to allow
liquids and small particles (such as crumbs and the like) to pass
through the lift body 711 and thus not be moved upward during
upward movement of the lift.
[0176] Assembly of Container 701. FIG. 24 depicts components of the
container 701 in an exploded view, but does not depict an assembly
drawing. Specifically, for assembly, the lift 710 is preferably
inserted into the top opening 702 of the operator tube 731, with
the lift projections 781 being guided into the operator engagement
features (slots) 782. More specifically, the lift projections 781
can be initially inserted into the operator engagement feature
extensions 783, which are of a larger diameter than the operator
engagement features 782. The use of the operator engagement feature
extensions 783 allows for the lift projections 710 to be easily
inserted into the operator engagement features 782. The lift 710
can then drop down towards the lower end of the operator 731 (via
lift projections 781 in operator engagement features 782), but the
lift can be prevented from passing through the lower end of the
operator by the closed ends (not numbered) of slots 782. The
operator 731 (and including the lift 710) can then be inserted into
the canister main opening 707 of the canister 751 with the lift
projections 781 being guided into the canister engagement features
(helixes 790, 792 and 794). The operator securing feature (or
features) 722 on the operator 731 engage the securing feature
receiver 724 in the canister flange 729, thus securing the operator
731 to the canister 751. At this point the operator 731, with the
exception of the gripping ring 726, is disposed within the canister
751, and the gripping ring 726 extends outward of the canister
(i.e., above the canister upper lip 716), thus forming the
container 701 of FIGS. 25 and 25A. A lid or cap 752 (FIGS. 24, 25)
can thereafter be applied to the upper open end 702 of the
container 701.
[0177] While the canister 751 is preferably cylindrical in shape,
the canister can also be polygonal in shape, provided that the
polygonal shape is such that following assembly of the container
701 the lift projections 781 will still be able to engage one or
more of the canister engagement features 790, 792, 794 as the
operator 731 is rotated relative to the canister 750.
[0178] Operation of Container 701. The container 701 of FIGS. 24,
25 and 25A can operate in a manner similar to that of container 601
(described above), with the primary difference being that for
container 701, in order to rotate the operator 731 relative to the
canister 751, the user can grasp the outer gripping ring 726,
rather than placing his/her fingers inside of the container (601)
to engage the top feature 699 (FIG. 22). Thus, when using container
701, a user can grasp the outer gripping ring 726 and cause the
operator 731 to be rotated relative to the canister 751. Relative
rotation of the operator 731 and canister 751 also causes relative
rotation between the lift 710 and the canister 751. This relative
rotation of the lift 710 and the canister 751 causes the lift
projections 781 (on lift 710) to travel along the helical grooves
(canister engagement features 790, 792, 794) formed on the
canister. The helical shape of the grooves 790, 792, 794 about the
canister 751 causes the lift 710 to move upward or downward (i.e.,
in vertical directions "Y", FIG. 25A) within the operator 731,
depending on the relative direction of rotation the operator 731
and canister 751. At the same time, as the lift projections 781 are
moving along the canister engagement features (helical grooves 790,
792, 794), the lift projections are caused to move upward or
downward in the operator engagement features (slots 782). This
arrangement can be appreciated by a study of FIG. 25, which depicts
a lift projection 781 passing through operator engagement feature
(or slot) 782, and being received within the canister engagement
feature (helical groove) 792. As such, each lift projection 781 is
located at an intersection of each respective operator engagement
feature 782 and the corresponding canister engagement feature (790,
792 or 794). As described above, this configuration (of the
container 701) is advantageous since the operator 731 and lift 710
remain rotationally static with respect to one another as the lift
710 traverses the length of the operator 731. The configuration
reduces friction between contents within the operator 731 and the
inner surface of the operator since the lift 710 will not tend to
impart rotational forces to the contents during movement of the
lift within the operator, unlike the configuration of container 1
(FIG. 1).
[0179] Sealing Means for Container 701: A close inspection of FIG.
25 shows that the configuration of the container 701 presents two
locations at which fluids (liquids and/or gasses) can ingress or
egress the container. The first location is the primary top opening
702 of the container 701, through which contents are intended to be
extracted from the container. The second location for possible
ingress or egress of fluids to or from the container 701 is at the
junction 732 between a lower edge (or bottom surface) 737 of the
gripping ring 726 of the operator 731, and the canister upper lip
716 (FIG. 24). This area is shown in an enlarged cross section
detail in FIG. 26. The container main opening 702 presents the
primary opening through which contends enter and are removed from
the container 701. Main opening 702 can be sealed with a cap (such
as cap 752), and/or with a pull-off safety seal 500 (FIGS. 19, 20).
However, as seen in FIG. 26, the canister upper flange portion 729
terminates at the canister upper lip 716, and the lower surface of
the 726 can rest against the canister upper lip at the junction
732. As indicated, this junction 732 presents a point at which
fluids can further egress or ingress the main cavity 703 of the
container 701. If the contents of the container 701 are to be
hermetically sealed for freshness and/or preservation, or merely to
prevent fluid leakage from the junction 732, then can be desirable
to provide a means for sealing the container at junction 732. A
number of alternative configurations that can be used to provide a
seal at junction 732 will now be described.
[0180] Screw-on cap sealing means: A first means for sealing the
container 701 at both the main opening 702 and at junction 732 is
depicted in FIGS. 25 and 26. In the variation a screw-on (or
twist-on-twist-off) cap 752 is provided. The screw-on cap 752 can
be provided with engagement lugs 754 that are configured to engage
cap screw threads 728 that are formed on the outer surface of the
canister flange 729. In one example the configuration of the
container threads 728 and lid lugs 754 can be provided according to
standards promulgated by the Glass Packaging Institute ("GPI") of
Alexandria, Va. (www.gri.org). In one specific example, a GPI
standard size 82 top seal lug finish (for thread 728) in accordance
with GPI DWG. NO. 20408 (available at
http://www.gpi.org/industry-resources/finish-drawings) was used.
The side flange 755 of the screw-cap 752 can be configured to
non-standard dimensions to ensure that the side 755 of the cap 752
will fit over the gripping ring 726 and extend sufficiently far
down the container 701 to allow the cap lugs 754 to engage the
container threads 728. When the cap 752 is twisted onto the
container 701, the cap lugs 754 will exert the following
compressive forces which will tend to seal the container 701: (i) a
first compressive force applied by the inside of the cap 752 around
the upper lip 725 of the operator 731; and (ii) a second
compressive force applied at the junction 732 between the operator
731 and the canister 751. Depending on the level (degree) of
sealing desired, and the materials of construction used for the
operator 731 and the canister 751, these two compressive forces
alone can be sufficient to provide the desired sealing to the
container 701. However, if the materials of construction used for
the operator 731 and the canister 751 do not allow for a sufficient
seal to be achieved by these compressive forces alone, then
additional sealing means can be provided. For example, if the
operator 731 and the canister 751 are fabricated from polyethylene
terephthalate plastic (commonly referred to as "PET"), and if a
hermetic seal is required for the container 701, then the
compressive forces applied by the cap 752 may be insufficient to
generate the hermetic seal. One specific additional sealing means
that can be used is a sealing compound applied at one or both
openings (i.e., main opening 702 and junction 732). A common
sealing compound used in the food industry to seal metal caps to
glass jars is a latex sealing compound applied to the inside of the
metal cap. The latex sealing compound is usually sprayed onto the
inside of the cap in an aqueous form and then dried or cured. Thus,
in the example depicted in FIG. 26, a sealing compound can be
applied to one of more of the following areas: (i) at main opening
702 by application of the sealing compound to one or both of the
underside of the cap 752, and/or around the operator upper lip 725;
and (ii) at junction 732 by application of the sealing compound to
one or both of the canister upper lip 716 and/or the underside 737
of the gripping ring 726. The sealing compound can be an
elastomeric sealing compound (such as the latex sealing compound
just described) which allows for repeated re-sealing, or a
non-elastomeric sealing compound (such as a glue) which does not
allow for re-sealing once the initial seal is broken. It will be
appreciated that the main opening 702 can also be sealed by using a
pull-off safety seal such as the pull-off safety seal 500 of FIG.
19. In one variation wherein the cap 752 includes a cap screw
thread (not shown or numbered) instead of the cap lugs 754, and the
cap screw thread circumscribes at least 360 degrees about a
similarly continuous canister screw thread (alternated to the
staggered canister screw threads 728 depicted in FIG. 24), then by
applying a sealing compound to the cap screw thread a hermetic seal
can be achieved for both the main opening 702 and the junction 732.
This can be visualized with respect to FIG. 26 if the canister
screw thread 28 extends circumferentially 360 degrees about the
canister flange 729, and the cap lug 754 is replaced with a mating
cap screw thread (similar in shape to canister thread 728) and is
extended circumferentially 360 degrees about the screw-on cap
752.
[0181] Snap-on cap sealing means: A second means for sealing the
container 701 at both the main opening 702 and at the junction 732
is depicted in FIG. 27. FIG. 27 is an enlarged side sectional view
of the same area of the container 701 as is shown in FIG. 26, but
showing a different cap arrangement. In the variation depicted in
FIG. 27 a snap-on (or snap-on-snap-off) cap 752A is provided. The
snap-on cap 752A can be provided with a snap lug 754A which extends
around the inside of the snap-on cap sidewall 755A. In the
variation depicted in FIG. 27 the canister thread 728 of FIG. 26 is
replaced with a cap securing feature 728A which extends at least
partially around, and preferably entirely around, the outer surface
of the canister flange 729A proximate the canister upper lip 716.
Both the snap lug 754A and the cap securing feature 728A preferably
extend circumferentially about the (respective) lid 752A and
canister flange 729A. The cap side 755A is selected to be of a
length that will ensure that the cap snap lug 754A cap will engage
the cap securing feature 728A on the canister 751 when the cap 752A
is placed over the main opening 702 of the container 701. In this
way the cap 752A will cover both the main opening 702 and the
junction 732. As with the screw-on cap described above, sealing
compounds can also be employed with the snap-on cap 752A of FIG. 27
to improve sealing at main opening 702 and at junction 732. As
depicted in FIG. 27, the container can additionally be provided
with a shrink-wrap type safety seal 753 which can extend around the
periphery of the cap 752A, and preferably over the canister flange
729A. (It will be appreciated that the shrink wrap seal of FIG. 27
can also be used with the screw-on cap variation of FIG. 26).
Further, the container main opening 702 in FIG. 27 can also be
sealed using a pull-off safety seal such as safety seal 500 of FIG.
19.
[0182] Other sealing means. In addition to the means for sealing
the container 701 described above, another means to achieve a seal
to prevent ingress and/or egress of fluids at junction 732 (FIG.
27) is to apply a sealing compound in the area 718 between in inner
surface of the canister flange 729A and the outer surface of the
operator flange 717. In this variation the canister flange 729A can
be provided with a slight outward taper (tapering outward towards
the canister upper lip 716) such that when a cap (752, FIG. 26 or
752A, FIG. 27) is placed over the upper end of the canister flange
729A, the cap will tend to compress the inner walls of the canister
flange 729A against the sealing compound placed between the flanges
717 and 729A. This arrangement can be used in combination with
other sealing means described above (e.g., shrink-warp safety seal
753 and/or pull-off safety seal 500, FIG. 19).
[0183] Optional Features. The containers described herein can be
provided with one of more optional features which are not
necessarily limited to use with any one or more of the containers
described herein above. I will now describe these optional
features.
[0184] Shaped lift. Turning now to FIG. 28, a shaped lift 810 that
can be used with various containers (e.g., container 701 of FIGS.
24 and 25) is depicted in a partial isometric view. The shaped lift
810 includes a lift base 882 having a plurality of lift projections
881 spaced about the periphery of the lift base. Lift projections
881 can be essentially the same as lift projections 710 of FIG. 24.
The shaped lift 810 further includes a lift body 883 which is
supported on the lift base 882. (The lift base 882 and the lift
body 883 can be fabricated as separate components which can then
joined together by gluing or the like, or as a single component.)
The lift body 883 is defined by a lift body upper surface 884 which
is a contoured surface. In the example depicted in FIG. 28 the lift
body upper surface 884 is contoured in a saddle shape. This can be
useful for supporting contents in the container (e.g., container
701) that have a corresponding complementary shape. For example, if
the contents of the container are saddle-shaped manufactured snack
chips, then a stack of such chips can rest on the saddle-shaped
lift surface 884. This provides the advantage of providing a larger
support surface for the stack of chips. That is, if the lift upper
surface 884 where a flat surface, then a stack of saddle-shaped
snack chips will only be supported at the two ends of the lowermost
chip in the stack, thus increasing the likelihood that the
lowermost chip or chips will be damaged from weight applied by the
stack of chips. While the lift surface 884 is depicted in FIG. 28
as being saddle-shaped (i.e., a surface having intersecting
orthogonal concave and convex shapes), other shapes can also be
provided, such as (and by way of example only): (i) a single
concave surface; (ii) a single convex surface; (iii) a conical
shaped surface (concave or convex); (iv) a hemispherical surface
(concave or convex); (v) a dimpled surface (e.g., concave dimples
to receive the ends of pretzel sticks or the like); (vi) a flat
sloped surface; and (vii) any other three dimensional topological
surface relative to the essentially flat horizontal orientation of
the of the lift base 882.
[0185] Lift view window. FIG. 29 is a side view of the container
701 of FIG. 25 and including an optional lift view window 760. The
view window 760 can be used to allow a user to see the side of the
lift 710 within the container 701, and thus approximate the amount
of contents remaining in the container. The lift view window can
also allow provide the user with a limited view of contents within
the container 701. Specifically, to implement the view window 760
the operator 731 (FIG. 25) can be fabricated from a clear or
transparent material, such as clear PET plastic. The canister 751
can be fabricated from a clear or transparent material, such as
clear PET plastic. This will allow the lift 710 to be viewed
through the canister 751 and operator 731. In one variation the
canister 751 can be fabricated with a clear or transparent vertical
strip corresponding to the window 760, and the rest of the canister
can be translucent, opaque, or clear but colored. For example,
current blow-molding techniques allow a plastic bottle to be blow
molded with a clear vertical strip in the bottle. This is commonly
seen in quart bottles of lubricants such as motor oil. In another
variation a plastic shrink wrap label can be provided over the
outside of the canister 751, the shrink wrap label having a clear
or transparent vertical strip corresponding to the view window 760.
Preferably the lift 710 is fabricated from a non-white opaque
material so that the lift can be easily seen through the view
window. For example, the lift 710 can be fabricated from red
plastic. In addition to the view window, indicia can be applied to
the outside of the canister to further inform the user of the
status of contents within the container 701. For example, the word
"FULL" (761) can be provided near the bottom of the view window 760
so that when the lift is located in that proximate area, the user
will know that the container 701 is essentially full of contents.
Further, the word "EMPTY" (762) can be provided near the top of the
view window 760 so that when the lift is located in that proximate
area, the user will know that the container 701 is nearly empty of
contents. Other words can be used, such as "TIME TO BUY MORE"
(instead of "EMPTY"). In a similar manner, a remaining-contents
indicator strip 763 can be applied adjacent to the view window 760.
In one example the remaining-contents indicator strip 763 can be a
variable color strip, with a blue color towards the bottom of the
strip, then moving upwards into green, yellow and then red along
the length of the strip. Since the color red is often used as a
cautionary color, when the lift is located proximate the red area
of the remaining-contents strip 763 the user will tend to be made
aware of the fact that the container 701 is nearly empty of
contents. The indicia (words (761, 762), remaining-contents strip
(763), and any other indicia (such as product marking of the like))
can be applied directly to the canister 751, or can be applied by a
label applied to the canister (such as a shrink-wrap label).
[0186] Contents retainer. FIG. 30 is a partial isometric view of a
container 701A (similar to container 701 of FIG. 25) which includes
a contents retainer 770. The contents retainer 770 serves to
restrain the contents (e.g., cracker 4) from inadvertently exiting
the main opening 702 of the container 701A (as for example when the
container is laid in a horizontal position). In the example shown
the contents retainer 770 comprises a thin flat disc having a
generally open center area (not numbered) which is applied to (or
is part of) the top of the gripping ring 726. (As described above
with respect to FIGS. 24 and 25, the gripping ring 726 can be a
part of the operator 731.) The contents retainer 770 can be, for
example, a separate part which can be glued or sonic welded or
otherwise attached to the top of the gripping ring 726. The
contents retainer 770 includes a plurality of flexible protrusions
772 which extend from the gripping ring 726 inwards to the
container main opening 702. Thus, when the operator 731 is rotated
relative to the canister 751, the contents 4 will be pushed past
the flexible protrusions 772 and outward of the container main
opening 702.
[0187] Multi-lobed operator. FIG. 31 is an essentially oblique view
of a multi-lobed operator 931 that can be used in a container
according with the present disclosure. This view is generally
looking up through an open bottom of the multi-lobed operator 931.
The multi-lobed operator 931 includes three content lobes 933, each
of which can be provided with contents. Multi-lobed operator 931 is
particularly useful in conjunction with stacked snack foods such as
chips, crackers, cookies, etc. The multi-lobed operator 931 thus
allows more contents to be provided in a container without the need
to increase the height of the container. This can be particularly
advantageous when the containers are placed on a shelf in a retail
location. Additionally, each lobe 933 of the multi-lobed operator
931 can be provided with different types of contents (e.g., if the
contents are cookies, then a different flavor of cookie can be
provided in each lobe; and if the contents are nuts, then a
different type of nut can be provided in each lobe). The
multi-lobed operator 931 includes one or more operator engagement
features 982, which can function in a manner similar to the
operator engagement features 782 described above with respect to
FIGS. 24 and 25. That is, the operator engagement features 982
capture the lift projections on a lift (as will be described more
fully below). The multi-lobed operator 931 includes an operator
upper flange portion 917 which is topped by a gripping ring 926.
The operator upper flange 917 can include securing features 922
which can operate similar to securing features 722 of operator
731--i.e., securing features engage with a corresponding securing
feature receiver (such as securing feature receiver 724) in the
canister (e.g., canister 751) to retain the operator 931 within the
canister. The multi-lobed operator upper flange 917 also includes
flange extension surfaces 918 which join the outer part of the
flange 917 to the various operator lobes 933. While the multi-lobed
operator 931 of FIG. 31 depicts three lobes 933, it will be
appreciated that only two lobes can be used, and in such instance
the two lobes are preferable diametrically opposed from one
another. Further, more than three lobes 933 can also be provided.
However, three lobes 933 (as depicted in FIG. 31) tend to maximize
the use of the interior volume of the multi-lobed operator 931.
Preferably, the lobes 933 (regardless of number used) are equally
angularly spaced about the center of the operator 931. In general,
each lobe 933 will have an outermost edge 935, and these outermost
edges preferably will be tangent to a circle which circumscribes
the lobes. The diameter of this circle which circumscribes the
outermost edges of the lobes 933 defines an operator main body
portion diameter similar to diameter D3 of FIG. 24. The lobes 933
can be circular or other shapes which basically result in the
outermost edges 935 being in proximate tangential orientation to
the inner surface of the canister (as depicted in FIG. 32,
described below, showing canister 951). Further, the lobes 933 can
be of different shapes and/or sizes to accommodate contents having
different shapes. As will be appreciated from the discussion of
FIG. 32 below, the lobes 933 are open to one another (and thus
interconnected) in order to allow a common lift to be used for all
of the lobes. A container 901 using the multi-lobed operator 931 is
depicted in FIG. 32.
[0188] Container 901 which incorporates the multi-lobed operator
931 of FIG. 31 is depicted in FIG. 32 in a plan view--i.e., with
the viewer looking down on the operator gripping ring 926 and the
flange extension surfaces 918. The container 901 includes a
canister 951 which can be the same as, or similar to, the canister
751 of FIGS. 24 and 25. The container 901 further includes lift 910
which fits within multi-lobed operator 931. As can be seen, the
lift 910 includes three lift lobes 912 which are complementary with
the three operator lobes 933. A lift projection 981 is provided at
the outermost edge of each lift lobe 912, and the lift projections
engage the operator engagement features 982 (FIG. 31). As can be
seen in FIG. 32, the outer edges 935 of the lift lobes 933 of the
multi-lobe lift 931 are in tangential arrangement with the inner
surface of the canister 951 along a circular segment of the
canister. Thus, as the multi-lobe operator 931 is rotated with
respect to the canister 951, the lift 910 will also rotate (by
virtue of lift projections 981 being engaged with operator
engagement features 982 and canister engagement feature 960),
causing the lift to move upwards (or downwards) within the
container 901 (in the manner described above with respect to
container 701 of FIGS. 24 and 25).
[0189] Lift lock unit. In certain applications is can be desirable
to fabricate the container (e.g., container 701, FIG. 24) so that
the lift 710 cannot be lowered back into the operator 731 once the
lift has reached the top of the container and the last of the
contents have been removed. This can be accomplished in one of a
number of ways, such as by providing a lift lock feature on the
canister 751 or on the operator 731. FIG. 33 is an enlarged side
detail of a canister 731B that is modified to provide a lift lock
feature. The operator includes gripping ring 726 (as described
above) and operator engagement feature 782B, which is a vertical
slot formed in the operator 731B. Near the top of the operator
engagement feature 782B is a unidirectional tooth 785 which allows
the lift projection 781 (shown in phantom lines) to pass upward
beyond the tooth 785 (as depicted), but does not allow the lift
projection 781 to move back down in the operator engagement feature
782B. The operator 731B can be fabricated from a material such as
PET plastic which provides sufficient flexibility in the tooth 785
to allow the lift projection 781 to move upwards past the tooth.
Another means to restrict downward travel of the lift after the
lift has reached a top-most position is to form the tops of
canister engagement features (790, 792, 794, FIG. 24) with
drop-offs which the lift projections 781 move into. These drop offs
can be molded into the upper ends of the helical slots (790, 792,
794).
[0190] Candle holding embodiment. In one embodiment a container of
the present disclosure can be used to hold a candle. In particular,
containers described herein can be used to hold a candle (such as a
votive candle or tea candle, for example) so that the candle can be
elevated on the lift for lighting, and then lowered into the
container during burning. One example is depicted in FIG. 34, which
is a side partial sectional view of a container 701C. (An exemplary
use of the candle holding container 701C is on tables in
restaurants.) Container 701C can be the same as, or similar to,
container 701 of FIGS. 24 and 25, except as described below. When
used to hold a candle, container 701C is preferably fabricated from
materials which can withstand heat generated by the candle (7)
without deforming the components of the container. For example, the
canister 751C and/or the operator 731C can be fabricated from glass
or heat-resistant plastic. Examples of heat resistant plastic that
can be used include a polycarbonate plastic and a polyetherimide
plastic. The canister 751C and the operator 731C are preferably
made from a material that is transparent or translucent to allow
light from the candle 7 to emanate from the sidewalls of the
container 701C. While the candle 7 is depicted in FIG. 34 as being
supported directly on the lift 710, the candle can also be
contained in holder such (as a metal cup, common for tea candles,
or in a glass votive) which can then be placed on the lift. The use
of a holder for the candle 7 to contain the candle 7 on the lift
710 reduces the likelihood that the lift 710 might become bound
against the canister 751C due to wax dripping from candle.
[0191] An optional feature that can be added to the candle holding
container 701C of FIG. 34 are gradations (788A-788D) in one or both
of the canister 751C and the operator 731C. In one example the
gradations 788A-788D can be gradations in transparency. For
example, zone 788A can be a nearly opaque zone, zone 788A can be an
essentially transparent zone, and zones 788B and 788C can be
respective zones of increasing transparency between zones 788A and
788D. One method for decreasing the transparency of the canister
751C and/or the operator 731C is by texturizing or roughening the
inner or outer surface of the component (canister or operator) to
cause more diffusion of light emanating from the candle 7. Another
method for decreasing the transparency of the canister 751C and/or
the operator 731C is by etching (such as acid etching) one or both
of the canister 751C and the operator 731C. Yet another method for
decreasing the transparency of the canister 751C and/or the
operator 731C is by applying a diffusing material (such as a spray
on coating) to one or both of the canister 751C and the operator
731C. In yet another example the gradations 788A-788D can be
gradations in color. For example, zone 788A can be blue, zone 788B
can be green, zone 788C can be red, and zone 788D can be yellow. It
will also be appreciated that the zones 788A-788D do not need to be
distinct zones, but can form a continuous transition in the
selected gradations (i.e., in transparency and/or colors) over a
desired range (e.g., from opaque to transparent).
[0192] In the candle holding embodiment, the candle can be replaced
with another light source, such as a battery powered light.
[0193] Power-driven Option. In one variation a container in
accordance with the present disclosures can be provided with a
power-driven driver to drive the operator about the canister. The
power-driven driver can be an electrically-driven power driver,
such as an electric motor powered by batteries or A/C wall current.
This variation can be applied to any of the various embodiments
described above, but will now described with respect to the
embodiment depicted in FIG. 25. (No drawing is provided to show
this variation, but the following description is deemed sufficient
to allow one of skill in the art to implement the disclosed
variation.) In this variation a space is provided between the
bottom 715 of the canister 751 and the bottom (not numbered) of the
operator. This space can be used to house the driver (e.g.,
electric motor) and batteries, transformers, converters or other
electrical on non-electrical components needed to provide
electrical power (or other power) to the driver. The driver is
preferably secured to the canister 751. A ring gear can be provided
on the bottom of the operator 731, and a pinion gear can be
attached to the driver, with the pinion gear engaging the ring
gear. Energizing the driver will cause the pinion gear to rotate
the ring gear, and thus the operator 731, thereby moving the
operator about the canister 751 and thus advancing the lift 710
within the operator. The driver can be provided with a reversing
switch to enable a user to reverse direction of rotation of the
operator 731 about the canister 751.
Eighth Embodiment
[0194] Turning now to FIG. 35, an eighth embodiment of a container
1001 in accordance with the present disclosure is depicted in a
side sectional view. Container 1001 includes a canister 1051, an
operator 1031, and a lift 1010, which all cooperate operationally
with one another in the manner described above with respect to
canister 751, operator 731, and lift 710 of container 701 (FIGS. 24
and 25). That is, the operation of container 1001 can be similar in
manner of operation to the container 701 of FIGS. 24 and 25.
However, the container 1001 of FIG. 35 differs in construction and
design from the container 701 of FIGS. 24 and 25 at least in the
following ways: (i) the canister 1051 of container 1001 does not
include a canister upper flange portion (such as canister upper
flange portion 729 of container 701); and (ii) the operator 1031 of
container 1001 does not include an operator upper flange portion
(such as operator upper flange portion 717 of container 701). As
was described above, one advantage to providing for an operator
upper flange portion (717, FIG. 24) is that this design allows for
the provision of operator engagement feature extensions 783, which
can be used to receive the lift extensions (781, FIG. 24) during
assembly of the container (701). As can be appreciated from FIG.
35, during assembly of container 1001 the lift 1010, and
specifically the lift extensions 1081, cannot easily be inserted
into the operator engagement features 1082 through the main opening
1002 in the operator 1031 if the lift extensions are essentially
rigid. Thus, in order to allow the lift 1010 to be inserted into
the operator 1031 during assembly of the container 1001, at least
two different configurations can be provided. In a first
configuration the lift extensions 1081 can be fabricated from a
flexible material (such as a rubber compound or a flexible plastic)
such that the lift extensions can flex while the lift 1010 is being
inserted through the main opening 1002. In a second configuration
the operator 1031, and the operator engagement features (slots
1082) can be open at the bottom of the operator 1031, and the
operator can be provided with unidirectional flexible lift securing
tabs 1093 (or similar lift securing means). In this second
configuration the lift 1010 (and specifically, the lift extensions
1081) can be inserted into an open bottom of the operator 1031 and
the lift then held inside the operator 1031 once the lift
extensions 1081 have passed over the unidirectional flexible lift
securing tabs 1093.
[0195] With further respect to FIG. 35, the canister 1051 of
container 1001 includes canister engagement features (helical
grooves) 1090, 1092 and 1094, which can be the same as, or similar
to, canister engagement features (helical grooves) 790, 792 and 794
of canister 751 of FIG. 24. Canister 1051 is defined by a canister
inside diameter D1, and includes a canister upper lip 1016. The
container 1001 further includes the operator 1031, and the lift
1010. The operator 1031 can include an operator main body portion
1033, which is defined by an operator outside diameter D3. The
operator 1031 can further include spacing features 1098 which can
be similar to spacing features 798 described above with respect to
container 701 of FIG. 24. When spacing features 1098 are provided
on the operator 1031, the operator outside diameter D3 is
preferably measured between the outside diameter of the spacing
features 1098. The relationship of canister inside diameter D1 and
operator outside diameter D3 can be as described above with respect
to the same dimensions of container 701 of FIGS. 24, 25 and 25A.
The operator 1031 (FIG. 35) further includes a gripping ring 1026.
The gripping ring 1026 defines an operator upper lip 1025, and is
also defined by a gripping ring lower (or bottom) edge 1037 and a
gripping ring outside diameter D5. Gripping ring outside diameter
D5 is greater than canister inside diameter D1 (to thus retain the
gripping ring 1026 outside of canister 1051). The canister 751 can
be provided with securing feature 1022, and the operator 1031 can
be provided with securing feature receiver 1024 configured to
receive securing feature 1022. One or both of securing feature 1022
(of canister 1051) and securing feature receiver 1024 (of operator
1031) can be formed in the respective canister 1051 or operator
1031 from a flexible material in order to allow the securing
feature 1022 to form a snap-fit with the securing feature receiver
1024 and thus secure the operator 1031 within the canister 1051
during assembly of the container 1001. It will be appreciated that
the positions of the securing feature 1022 and the securing feature
receiver 1024 are reversed from the arrangement depicted in the
embodiment depicted in FIG. 24 (wherein the securing feature 722 is
formed in the operator 731, and the securing feature receiver 724
is formed in the canister 751). Thus, the securing features 722,
1022 can be formed in either the canister (751, 1051) or the
operator (731, 1031), with the securing feature receiver 724, 1024
formed in the other part (i.e., operator or canister,
respectively).
[0196] Canister 1051 of FIG. 35 can be provided with a lid sealing
thread feature 1028 to allow a cap (e.g., cap 752 of FIG. 26) to be
applied to the container 1001 (in a manner similar to that
described above with respect to FIG. 26). The junction 1032 (FIG.
35) between the canister upper lip 1016 and the lower edge 1037 of
the gripping ring 1026 can be sealed in manners described above
with respect to FIGS. 26 and 27.
Ninth Embodiment
[0197] Turning now to FIG. 36, a ninth embodiment of a container
1101 in accordance with the present disclosure is depicted in a
partial side sectional view. Container 1101 includes a canister
1151, an operator 1131, and a lift 1110, which all cooperate
operationally with one another in the manner described above with
respect to canister 751, operator 731, and lift 710 of container
701 (FIGS. 24 and 25). That is, the operation of container 1101 can
be similar in manner of operation to the container 701 of FIGS. 24
and 25. However, the container 1101 of FIG. 36 differs in
construction and design from the container 701 of FIGS. 24 and 25
at least in the following way: in FIG. 36 the outside diameter D5'
of the gripping ring 1126 is essentially equal to the inside
diameter D2 of the top opening of the canister 1151, whereas in the
container 701 the outside diameter D5 of the gripping ring is
greater than the inside diameter D2 of the top opening of the
canister 751. The top opening of the canister 1151 is essentially
the same as the canister main opening 707 of the canister 751 of
FIG. 24.
[0198] More specifically, the canister 1151 of container 1101
includes a plurality of canister engagement features 1190, 1192 and
1194 which operate in essentially a similar manner as canister
engagement features 790, 792 and 794 of container 701 of FIG. 24.
The canister 1151 terminates at a canister upper lip 1116, and a
cap securing feature 1128 is provided on the outside of the
canister 1151 proximate (and below) the canister upper lip. The
operator 1131 of container 1101 includes an operator main body
portion 1133, which includes operator engagement feature 1182
(which can be similar to operator engagement feature 782 of FIG.
24). The operator 1131 further includes gripping ring 1126 which is
located at the upper open end of the operator, and which surrounds
(and thus defines) the operator main opening 1102 (and thus the
container main opening). The lift 1110 includes one or more lift
extensions 1181 (similar to lift extensions 781, FIG. 24) which
engage the operator engagement feature(s) 1182 and the canister
engagement feature(s) 790, 792, 794. As shown in the assembled
drawing figure (FIG. 36) of the container 1101, a junction 1132 is
formed where the gripping ring 1126 passes outward of the canister
1151. As described above with respect to container 701 and junction
732, this junction 1132 presents a location at which fluids can
potentially flow into and out of the container 1101, and thus in
certain uses it can be desirable to seal the junction 1132. For the
container 1101, a cap 1152 can be used to cover (and thus seal) the
operator main opening 1102 (which is also the container main
opening), as well as sealing the junction 1132 by virtue of the cap
1152 engaging the cap securing feature 1128 (which is located below
the junction 1132). As an alternative to the snap-on cap 1152 shown
in FIG. 36, a screw-on cap (such as cap 752 of FIG. 25) can be used
when the cap securing feature 1128 comprises one or more thread
features (similar to thread features 728 of FIG. 25). In addition
to cap 1152, other sealing means described above with respect to
container 701, and variants thereof, can also be employed (such as
sealing compounds, safety-seals, and shrink-wrap seals).
Gripping Ring Feature
[0199] It will be appreciated that the containers 701, 901, 1001
and 1101 (of respective FIGS. 25, 32, 35 and 36) all share a common
feature in that for each container the gripping ring (726, 926,
1026 and 1126, respectively) of the operator (731, 931, 1031, 1131,
respectively) extends above (i.e., extends beyond, or outward of)
the canister upper lip (716, not shown for container 901, 1016 and
1116, respectively). The gripping ring can thus be described as a
portion of the operator which extends above the canister upper lip.
That is, the operators 731, 1031, 1131 of the containers 701, 1001,
1101 can be described as including a gripping ring portion 726,
1026, 1126 which extends above the canister upper lip 716, 1016,
1116. This feature (of the gripping ring portion of the operator
extending above the upper lip of the canister) allows a user to
more easily grasp the gripping ring portion (726, 1026, 1126) of
the operator (731, 1031, 1131) in order to rotate the operator with
respect to the canister (751, 1051, 1151). Moreover, this feature
can be an improvement over other embodiments described herein which
require a user to reach within the container in order to grasp the
operator (e.g., for container 601 of FIGS. 22 and 23, a user must
reach within the container in order to engage the top features 699
so that the user can rotate the operator 631 with respect to the
canister 651). Furthermore, the outside diameter of the gripping
ring (726, 926, 1026 and 1126) depicted in the embodiments of FIGS.
24-36 is not constrained to the diameters depicted. For example,
the outside diameter of the gripping ring portion of the operator
can be: (i) greater than the outside diameter of the canister about
the canister upper lip; (ii) essentially the same as the outside
diameter of the canister about the canister upper lip (per FIG.
25); (iii) essentially the same as the inside diameter of the
canister about the canister upper lip (per FIG. 36); or (iv) less
than the inside diameter of the canister about the canister upper
lip.
[0200] It will further be appreciated that when the gripping ring
portion of the operator (e.g., 726, 1026, 1126, as per FIGS. 25, 35
and 36, respectively) extends above the canister upper lip (716,
1016, 1116, respectively), then a junction (732, 1032, 1132,
respectively) is created where the gripping ring portion of the
operator (e.g., 731, 1031, 1131) passes above the canister upper
lip. As described above, this junction presents a location at which
fluids can ingress or ingress the interior of the container (701,
1001, 1101). And, as also described above, it can be desirable to
seal this junction in addition to sealing the primary container
opening (which corresponds to the operator opening 702, 1002,
1102). In order to seal both the junction and the primary container
opening, a double-sealing means can be provided. One such
double-sealing means can be a cap which includes a top portion
which extends over the operator (container) main opening, and which
further includes cap side walls which extend downward from the cap
top portion to cover the junction, and wherein the cap sidewalls
include engagement lugs configured to engage a cap securing feature
which is formed on the exterior of the canister below the canister
upper lip. Examples of such a double-sealing means cap have been
specifically described above with respect to FIGS. 26 and 27.
[0201] An alternate double-sealing means can include a first
sealing means which extends over the operator (container) main
opening (e.g., 702, FIG. 25), but which does not extend downward to
cover the junction (e.g., 732, FIG. 25). (As an example, the first
sealing means can be a safety seal, such as safety seal 500 of FIG.
19, which can cover container main opening 702, FIG. 25. The first
sealing means can also be a cap which engages a cap securing
feature which is formed on the exterior of the gripping ring (not
shown).) In this variation the double-sealing means can further
include a second sealing means which seals the junction. (As an
example, the second sealing means can be a shrink-wrap, such as
shrink-wrap 753 of FIG. 27, which fits around the junction. The
second sealing means can also be a sealing compound applied to the
canister and/or the operator in the area of the junction (as
described above).)
Interpretation Notes
[0202] The above description has set out various features,
functions, methods and other aspects of the inventions. This has
been done with regard to the currently disclosed embodiments
thereof. Time and further development may change the manner in
which the various aspects are implemented. Such aspects may further
be added to by the language of the claims which are incorporated by
reference hereinto as originally filed.
[0203] The scope of protection accorded the inventions as defined
by the claims is not intended to be necessarily limited to the
specific sizes, shapes, features or other aspects of the currently
preferred embodiments depicted and described. The claimed
invention(s) may be implemented or embodied in other forms while
still being within the concepts depicted, described and claimed
herein. Also included are equivalents of the invention(s) which can
be made without departing from the scope of concepts properly
protected hereby.
[0204] While the above disclosure has been described in language
more or less specific as to structural and methodical features, it
is to be understood, however, that the embodiments disclosed herein
are not limited to the specific features shown and described, since
the means herein disclosed comprise preferred forms of putting the
embodiments into effect. Certain features described with respect to
one embodiment can oftentimes be used with, or modified for use
with, other embodiments. The embodiments are therefore claimed in
any of their forms or modifications within the proper scope of the
appended claims as appropriately interpreted.
* * * * *
References